Algae may develop in the Berkey Light ® due to two factors. The first is that the Berkey systems ® remove any chemicals that would inhibit algae growth. The second is light. If the LED on the base stays on constantly, it can encourage algae growth. This situation can also occur if the Berkey system ® is placed next to or near a sunny window where it receives direct sunlight.
This can be avoided by moving the system or not using LED lights as much. Another resolution that our customers have reported working very well is to simply place a pure silver coin, such as an American Eagle (99.999% pure silver) in the lower chamber. Silver is a natural antimicrobial and inhibits algae growth. Although we don't know the exact type of algae that grows, most blue-green algae are healthy food sources. We suggest you Google spirulina for more information on blue-green algae health.
