Abstract: A filter apparatus comprises a tank, a pump and pump motor assembly, a filter assembly, and an inlet/outlet hose, which are modular elements easily assembled for use and disassembled for cleaning. The pump and pump motor assembly is detachably mounted to the tank by flanges including alignment pins and releasably connecting means. The filter assembly and inlet/outlet hose are attached to the pump and pump motor assembly by quick disconnect fittings which include heat insulating actuator rings. The filter assembly includes a filter intake pipe having a filter shoe mounted transversely thereto, a plenum grid which fits over the filter intake pipe and is detachably secured to the filter shoe, and a filter bag which fits over the plenum grid and is clamped between the plenum grid and filter shoe to effect a filter bag seal. The filter assembly is provided with a heat insulating handle to facilitate removing it when hot for filter bag replacement.