I also have had this model for two years or so.
It is correct that you can flip this bottom section off. It seems to be a form of plastic.
Simply get a strong reasonably sized flathead screwdriver and place it in the gap over to the left and ease it off.
It is held by five plugs that stick out of the back of the bottom section and slot into the appropriate holes.
I found it relatively easy to get off and it was the first time I'd levered it off in the two years.
To my surprise the filter section was clean so maybe it's self cleaning.
The filter is in the right hand corner and is unscrewed anti-clockwise.
As per usual some water did go onto the floor but not much.
Simply clean the filter if it needs it and screw it back on clockwise.
Push the bottom section back in place after aligning the plugs in each of the five holes.
Hope this helps.
Craig, December 2008
