Self-cleaning fluid filter system

A filter apparatus for use with a submersible pump, said filter apparatus comprising:

• a filter element;
• a filter basket, wherein said filter element extends about at least a portion of said filter basket, and wherein said filter basket comprises:
• a manifold comprising an internal chamber fluidly connecting a flushing medium supply opening with a plurality of apertures;
• and
• a plurality of tubes, wherein each tube of said plurality of tubes extends from one of said plurality of apertures so as to form a substantially cylindrical filter basket, and wherein said tubes have a plurality of perforations for directing a flushing medium to impinge upon an interior surface of the filter element to dislodge or expel particulate material entrapped on the filter element.

A system for cleaning a filter apparatus used for screening the intake of a pump, said system comprising:

• a supply tank for storing a pressurized flushing medium;
• a supply line for delivery of the flushing medium;
• a filter apparatus comprising:
• a filter element;
• a filter basket, wherein said filter element extends about at least a portion of said filter basket, and wherein said filter basket comprises:
• a manifold, comprising:
• a flushing medium supply opening in a first surface thereof for receiving said supply line;
• a plurality of apertures in a second surface of said manifold;
• and
• an internal chamber fluidly connecting said flushing medium supply opening with said plurality of apertures;
• and
• a plurality of tubes, wherein each tube of said plurality of tubes extends from one of said plurality of apertures and includes a plurality of perforations for directing the flushing medium to impinge upon an interior surface of the filter element to dislodge or expel particulate material entrapped on the filter element.