Filters don't need pantyhose.

Dear Half-Mast,

In Iraq we've had big trouble with the fine sand clogging the filters for our Sentinel. Once the filters clog up, we have all sorts of overheating and electrical problems.

We're wondering if it would help to put pantyhose over the filters to give them extra filtering help. What do you think?

SSG T.M.

Dear Sergeant T.M.,

Save those pantyhose for your wife or girlfriend. Your Sentinel doesn't need them. Sentinel filters are electromagnetic interference (EMI) type filters with seals on their mounting surfaces. If you put pantyhose on the filters, you could hurt their EMI abilities.

The only acceptable way to keep filters clean is to check them every day for sand buildup. If they're clogged, clean them with soap and water or blow them clean with low-pressure air. An air hose is a good way to dry the filters after washing. In Iraq, you may need to clean them every day.

The best solution is to order an extra set of filters for each Sentinel and rotate the filters every day. That gives you and your Sentinel breathing space while you clean the filters and let them dry.

In desert, order an extra set of filters and rotate them daily

HALF-MAST