Abstract: Embodiments of a fluid filtering assembly are shown and described, each embodiment including a valve head that routes fluid to and from a filter cartridge and that includes a valve system that automatically opens and closes when the filter cartridge is inserted and removed, respectively. The valve system preferably includes a generally-cylindrical piston with a hollow interior space, which receives a stem member. The stem member has a bottom-end seat or sealing member and has a central body shape that allows fluid to flow up through the piston interior space, either through or up around the stem member. Upon removal of the filter cartridge, the piston is biased to move down into an "off" position, to close both the inlet and outlet fluid passages. In this "off" position, the piston exterior surface blocks off radial fluid inlets and the piston interior surface seals with the stem bottom end seat to prevent fluid backflow out of the piston interior space.

Abstract: Embodiments of a fluid filtering assembly are shown and described, each embodiment including a valve head that routes fluid to and from a filter cartridge and that includes a valve system that automatically opens and closes when the filter cartridge is inserted and removed, respectively. The valve system preferably includes a generally-cylindrical piston with a hollow interior space, which receives a stem member. The stem member has a bottom-end seat or sealing member and has a central body shape that allows fluid to flow up through the piston interior space, either through or up around the stem member. Upon removal of the filter cartridge, the piston is biased to move down into an "off" position, to close both the inlet and outlet fluid passages. In this "off" position, the piston exterior surface blocks off radial fluid inlets and the piston interior surface seals with the stem bottom end seat to prevent fluid backflow out of the piston interior space.