A filter device includes a plurality of filter elements (21) received in a filter housing having a filter inlet for a fluid to be filtered and a filter outlet for the filtered fluid. Flow through the filter elements (21) is possible in both directions for filtration or backwashing. Because the shut-off element (41) is a fast-closing plate valve (43) actuated by a hydraulic piston (53) and blocks the fluid connection so quickly, a feeding effect is created in the manner of a pressure blow on the backwashed filter element (21). The feeding effect increases the cleaning of pollution on the filter element (21), achieving an improved backwashing cleaning.