How do I test my Black Berkey® purification elements to make sure they are working properly?

Because the Black Berkey® Purification Elements are so powerful they can remove red food colouring from water. This allows you a method to test your system periodically. We recommended that the Red Food Colour Test be run after new systems are first assembled. We also recommend that they be tested every 3 to 6 months thereafter, after your system has been in storage or before taking your system on a trip or out of the country, in order to insure your system is functioning properly.
You should test your filters by filling the upper chamber with water then add a tablespoon of red food coloring for every gallon (3.78541 litres) of water within your upper chamber. If the red food coloring is removed entirely, your elements are working properly. If not, check to make sure that the wing nuts on your elements are securely tightened then re-run the test.