Abstract: A system for actuating a water flow through a filter. The system includes a filtrate withdrawal conduit for being connected to the filter in a water sealing fashion for receiving filtrate therefrom. A filtrate collector is in fluid communication with the filtrate withdrawal conduit for collecting the filtrate. A filtrate siphon is interposed between the filtrate withdrawal conduit and the filtrate collector. A suction mechanism connected to a top portion of the filtrate siphon via an air conduit. The suction mechanism provides suction to the filtrate siphon which is sufficient for drawing the filtrate to the top portion of the filtrate siphon for actuating the water flow through the filter and the flow of filtrate from the filter to the filtrate collector.