As wet, contaminated air is drawn through the unit, multiple 3-micron polyester filter elements remove solid particulates, and the silica gel extracts moisture. When air is expelled from the container, the top foam pad prevents oil mist from contacting silica gel or entering the atmosphere. The breather is outfitted with a resilient nylon standpipe and polypropylene oil mist reducer to allow oil mist to coalesce and drain back into the reservoir, rather than compromising the desiccant. Check-valves are located underneath the unit to isolate equipment from ambient conditions, prolonging breather life and protecting system integrity.