a filtering method and apparatus for continuously filtering a polymeric melt , which includes a plurality of filter chambers which are arranged in a melt flow path parallel to one another . also , an intermediate filter is arranged parallel to the filter chambers . when one of the filter chambers is disconnected for the purpose of cleaning or replacing the filter element therein , the intermediate filter is connected synchronously in the melt flow path and , after the filter chamber is cleaned , or the filter element is exchanged , the flow is switched back through the filter chamber , and the intermediate filter is again disconnected .