A water filtration system that includes a filter manifold having a rotatable cover is provided. A filter cartridge is provided that includes a sump having a filter head integrally secured to a first end and cap releasably secured to a second end. A locking mechanism extending from the cover locks into the filter manifold to position the cartridge in an “in-use” state. The filter cartridge further includes two offset cylindrical inlet and outlet members protruding from the filter head that are designed to engage corresponding inlet and outlets of the filter manifold through a horizontal engagement mechanism. A check valve is positioned within the filter manifold adjacent the inlet of the filter cartridge to control fluid flow through the water filtration system. The filter cartridge head includes fins upwardly extending therefrom that are configured to engage corresponding slots formed in a plurality of corrugated channels of the filter manifold.