Dry Air Filters

The purpose of a Dry Air Filter is to capture dry natural elements such as dust and dirt from entering the cylinder head of an engine. Dry Air Filters are constructed with several layers of dry pleated paper. The advantage to using a Dry Air Filter depends on the climate where the vehicle is driven. Dry Filters offer advanced protection for an engine in dry, high temperature environments. Dry Air Filters offer less space in between their layers than oiled filters, leading to greater protection for the filter element, though less air flow than oiled filters. To clean a Dry Air Filter, an air dryer or dry cloth must be used. If Dry Air Filters are exposed to water, the interior filter element may be damaged. There are Dry Air Filter cleaning chemicals available which coat the exterior of the filter to protect the filter element. The cleaning chemicals should only be used with the same brand as the air filter due to manufacturer specifications.

Image Courtesy: Advanced Flow Engineering, DBA 'aFe Power'

Image Courtesy: Advanced Flow Engineering, DBA 'aFe Power' 

Should I Choose an Oiled or Dry Air Filter?

The main factor when considering an automotive air filter is the climate where you drive most often. If your vehicle is driven through hot and dusty areas, a Dry Air Filter would be suggested. If your vehicle is driven through humid and warm areas, an Oiled Air Filter would be suggested. One may ask, well what if I live in an area with a mix of wet and dry climates such as the Mid-West US? The main factor when considering moderate climates are the types of roads. Does your driving area offer developed routes with asphalt roads? Do you have to use undeveloped paths via dirt or sand? These are the types of questions you would need to answer before selecting an air filter in moderate climates. If there was a more popular option of the two filter styles, it would likely be subject to much opinion. Oiled Air Filters are more popular for automotive performance enthusiasts due to their offer of higher airflow. Dry Air Filters tend to be more popular for general repair as their replacement is low maintenance.