How to Choose the Right Compressed Air Filter Element
Match the element already fitted, understand where it sits in the filtration train and compare compatible replacement references. This guide turns a potentially confusing maintenance job into a straightforward selection process.
Start with the reference already fitted
Use the old element, housing label or service record as your first point of comparison.
Find the existing reference
Start with the part number printed on the old element, housing label, service record or previous invoice.
Confirm the housing
Two elements can look similar but fit different housings. Check the manufacturer and housing model before ordering.
Confirm the filter duty
Make sure you are replacing the correct stage — for example a pre-filter, finer downstream filter or oil-removal stage.
Match the full reference
Do not rely on dimensions alone. Match the complete reference and application wherever possible.
What are you actually replacing?
The filter housing stays in the compressed air line; the filter element is the service part inside it. The element does the filtration work and is replaced periodically as part of normal maintenance.
The quickest route to the correct element
If you can read the existing element reference, use that as your starting point. Our range includes Tanair elements and alternatives for several established filtration reference families.
- Photograph the existing element label before removal.
- Note the filter housing make, model and connection size.
- Check whether the element is upstream or downstream of another filter stage.
- Compare the full part number rather than matching only part of a code.
- If the system history is unclear, ask us to help verify the replacement before ordering.
Information worth having to hand
- Existing element reference
- Filter housing reference
- Manufacturer or original brand
- Pipe connection size
- Approximate compressor flow / CFM
- Filtration stage or application
Different stages do different jobs
Compressed air treatment is often arranged in stages. The exact combination depends on the application, but knowing where the element sits in the system helps narrow the replacement.
Pre-filtration
Usually positioned earlier in the treatment train to remove larger contamination and protect downstream equipment and finer filtration stages.
Fine / post-filtration
Used further downstream where a finer level of air cleanliness is required. Always match the intended grade and housing rather than assuming every downstream element is equivalent.
Specialist / oil-removal duties
Some systems use specialist stages for very fine aerosol or vapour control. These should be selected against the actual application and original specification.
Use this sequence to avoid the common mistakes
Reference
Match the complete part number from the old element or service documentation.
Housing
Confirm the element is intended for your exact filter housing or approved equivalent housing range.
Duty
Check whether it is a pre-filter, fine filter, oil-removal or other specialist stage.
System size
Confirm the filter is appropriate for the compressed air flow and connection size used on your system.
Search 261 filter element references
Type a manufacturer reference, part number, brand name or wording from the old element. Matching products will remain visible below.
261 matching products shown.
Check the reference for spaces, slashes or punctuation. If you are still unsure, send us the old element and housing references and we can help identify the correct option.
Tanair filter elements & other references
17 product references. Use the search box above to narrow by part number, manufacturer reference or product wording.
Ultrafilter alternatives
108 product references. Use the search box above to narrow by part number, manufacturer reference or product wording.
Domnick Hunter alternatives
59 product references. Use the search box above to narrow by part number, manufacturer reference or product wording.
Hankinson alternatives
43 product references. Use the search box above to narrow by part number, manufacturer reference or product wording.
CompAir alternatives
34 product references. Use the search box above to narrow by part number, manufacturer reference or product wording.
Alternative-reference wording is provided to help identify compatible replacement options. Always confirm the complete reference, housing and duty before purchase.
Compressed air filter element FAQs
Can I choose a replacement element from its dimensions alone?
No. Dimensions can be useful as a secondary check, but the safer approach is to match the complete element reference and confirm the filter housing and filtration duty.
What if I only know the filter housing model?
Use the housing manufacturer and model as your starting point. If you cannot confidently identify the element, contact us with the housing details and, where possible, photographs of the existing element and housing label.
Does every compressed air system use the same filter stages?
No. The treatment arrangement depends on the compressor, dryer, application and required air quality. Some systems use several stages while others use a simpler arrangement.
Why should filter elements be replaced?
Filter elements collect contamination during service. As they load, system performance can deteriorate and pressure loss can increase. Replacement intervals should follow the element and system maintenance requirements.
Can you help identify an alternative element?
Yes. The most useful information is the existing element reference, filter housing reference, manufacturer and any visible labels. That gives us the best chance of matching the correct replacement.
Not sure which filter element you need?
Send us the reference from the existing element or filter housing. We can help you narrow down the correct replacement before you order.