A movable filter system is provided for moving one or more filters of a filter assembly between an operative position and a maintenance position. In one embodiment, a filter assembly (110) is secured to a telescoping rod assembly (120) so that it may be moved between operative and maintenance positions. Positioning the rod assembly (120) vertically allows gravity to move the rod assembly (120) to an extended position, and a winch (112) and cable (104) may be used to move the rod assembly (120) to a retracted position. Keyways and channels may be used within the rods of the telescoping rod assembly (120) so as to maintain rotational positioning of the filter assembly.
