Filter cleaning system and method

A method for self-cleaning a filter cartridge located within a filter housing without opening the filter housing, the filter cartridge having a hollow core, the method comprising the steps of:

• a) closing a fluid inlet to the filter housing so that the filter housing is full of fluid;
• b) gradually introducing pressurized gas into the filter housing through a gas injection inlet such that the pressurized gas creates turbulence that will dislodge particulate matter from an interior of the hollow core;
• c) backwashing the hollow core by purging the fluid inside the filter housing and the dislodged particulate matter by providing a purge exit from the filter housing utilizing the force of the pressurized gas;
• wherein the purging comprises:
• i) sensing a fluid level inside the filter housing;
• ii) sensing a position of a purge inlet coupled to a wash nozzle capable of moving along the hollow core;
• and
• iii) maintaining the position of the purge inlet below the fluid level inside the filter housing;
• d) terminating the backwashing by cessation of introduction of pressurized gas in the filter housing and closing the purge exit;
• e) washing the filter cartridge by spraying a high-pressure wash fluid to the interior of the hollow core to remove any additional particulate matter;
• and
• f) draining the high-pressure wash fluid with any particulate matter from the filter housing.