Abstract: A self-cleaning system for a filter includes a filter element; a filter housing with first, second, and third ports; the first port being a fluid inlet; the second port being a fluid outlet, and the third port being a recirculation outlet, the first and second ports being on the upstream side of the filter element; the third port being on the downstream side of the filter element; enabling primary and transverse flow through the filter; whereby reverse flow via the third port is used to clean the filter element; the system including a one-way valve connected to the second port to inhibit reflux of drain fluid into filter. A recirculation pump and a drain pump are controlled to periodically drain the lint removed from the filter to the system drain.