Abstract: A filtering apparatus for purifying cooking oil is provided. The filtering apparatus comprises a housing, a filter housing including a filter and a first conduit in communication with a deep fryer for extraction of cooking oil requiring purifying from the deep fryer. The apparatus further comprises a pump for pumping cooking oil through the first conduit, a valve assembly in flow communication with the pump, and a second conduit in flow communication with the pump which transports cooking oil to the filter housing. The filtering apparatus also comprises one or more heating cables attached to the first and second conduits and located adjacent the pump and valve assembly, and a thermostat in communication with a thermostat probe attached to the first and second conduits and the valve assembly and pump, whereby use of the thermostat prevents activation of said one or more heating cables when activation is not required.