Keith Jacobs
Homesteading is not just about planting a garden; it’s about taking control of one’s own resources and becoming more self-reliant. One critical area for those choosing a homesteading lifestyle is water filtration. Clean, safe water is essential for drinking, cooking, and gardening, yet many people find themselves relying on municipal sources or bottled water. It is time to explore an alternative: installing a high-quality water filtration system.
To start, individuals need to consider what works best for their home. Many homesteaders have turned to Berkey water filters, known for their effectiveness in removing impurities from drinking water. However, recent changes in regulations have left many looking for replacements for discontinued filters. Fortunately, newer options have emerged that offer similar benefits without sacrificing performance. One such replacement filter comes from Borau, which provides a formulation identical to the original Berkey filters, promising effective filtration while complying with updated regulations.
Before diving into the installation process, it’s important to gather all the necessary materials. When working with Borau filters, the kit typically includes two foundation filters, a priming tool, and detailed instructions on how to set everything up. The first step is to prime the filters, a crucial step that ensures optimal function. This involves attaching the priming tool to a water source and allowing it to flow through, creating the right amount of pressure to drive water through the filters properly. It is advised to use a garden hose for this task as modern faucets may not provide the right fit or water pressure.
The priming process can sometimes be tricky. It’s essential to be patient and allow water to slowly trickle through the filters. Aiming to fill a 12-ounce glass in about one minute makes it easy to gauge the proper flow rate. The objective here is to avoid rushing through this step, as doing so can result in insufficient priming, which would hinder the filters from functioning correctly. It’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines closely to ensure the system is ready for use.
Once the filters are primed, the next step is to install them into the Berkey system. The installation is straightforward. Simply remove the old filters and replace them with the new ones, ensuring the rubber washers are placed correctly to create a watertight seal. Tighten the filters snugly, but be cautious not to overtighten and break any components. After all the filters are in place, filling the reservoir will allow the system to begin filtering water, providing fresh, clean drinking water.
In conclusion, finding a reliable water filtration system is an important step in establishing a self-sufficient homestead. While changes in regulations can present challenges, options like the Borau filters offer effective alternatives that ensure clean water throughout your home. With proper installation and maintenance, these filters will become an invaluable asset for any homesteader, enabling families to enjoy fresh water while enjoying peace of mind about what they are consuming. Embracing a homesteading lifestyle means taking charge of one’s resources, and the right water filtration system is a key component of that journey.
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