The present invention includes a gravity filter assembly which includes at least one filter media positioned about at least one water inlet pathway. The gravity filter assembly also includes a base. The base has an engagement mechanism which is configured to releasably engage a filter media facing side of a liquid impermeable shroud when a liquid impermeable shroud is positioned over the filter media. The base is sized to fit within an outer perimeter defined by at least one perimeter side wall of the liquid impermeable shroud. Moreover the base includes a top cap section having an outer surface and a filter media facing surface. The filter media facing surface receives the top surface of the filter media. The filter media, base, and top cap section are configured to be removed and replaced without the use of tools.