A filter element assembly has at least two cylindrically shaped and concentrically arranged filter media sleeves each connected at one end thereof to an inlet plate and each connected at the other end to a closed end terminal plate. Openings are provided in the inlet plate to permit entry of liquid to be filtered into the annular space between the filter sleeves. The closed end terminal plate prevents flow of unfiltered liquid from the annular space between the sleeves so as to force the liquid through the porous media of the sleeves to effect filtration. The inlet plate includes a central area that is recessed in relation to its outer edge to define an inlet chamber capped by a planar housing lid. The inlet chamber communicates with the inlet conduit via an opening in the central area.