As a key component in advanced coal- or biomass-based power applications, hot gas filtration systems are designed to protect the downstream heat exchanger and gas turbine components from particle fouling and erosion, cleaning the process gas to meet emission requirements. When installed in either pressurized fluidized-bed combustion (PFBC) or integrated gasification and combined cycle (IGCC) plants, lower downstream component costs are projected, in addition to improved energy efficiency, lower maintenance, and elimination of additional and expensive fuel or flue gas treatment systems. As a critical component, long-term performance, durability, and life of the porous ceramic filter elements are essential to the successful operation of the hot gas filtration system in advanced combustion and gasification applications. Char and ash fines can potentially have a deleterious impact on the life of porous ceramic filters that are currently utilized in advanced coal-fired and biomass applications. This paper reviews several of the char and ash related issues that have been encountered in various Westinghouse Advanced Particulate Filtration (APF) systems which limited filter life.