Is there a way to test my Berkey system to make sure it is working properly?
Yes. You should test the Black Berkey elements by filling the upper chamber with water, then add a tablespoon of food coloring for every gallon of water within your upper chamber. If the food coloring is removed entirely, your system is working properly. If not, check to make sure that the wing nuts on your elements are securely tightened then re-run the test. This test is not for the ceramic elements.
