Planning on buying a rental property in Portland Oregon? There’s no doubt that it ofers an excellent return on your investment but managing your rental also means that even small tasks, like changing furnace filters, can become a hassle.
Why? The tasks can make that rental property become a 2nd or 3rd job if you don’t stay on top of them. This is why it’s important for you to know how to do them yourself and how to keep those tasks on schedule.
This article will explain how to change them, why it’s important, and how Portland, Oregon, property management can save you the trouble.
Why Furnace Filters Matter in Your Rental Property
Furnace filters aren’t just about keeping dust out of the air. They protect your heating and cooling system from damage, improve indoor air quality for tenants, and ensure the system runs efficiently. Neglecting filter changes can cause:
- Higher utility bills (systems work harder when filters are dirty)
- Reduced furnace lifespan
- Poor air quality, leading to tenant complaints
- Expensive HVAC repairs
Most filters require replacement every 1–3 months, depending on the type, location, and tenant habits. Owners must remember the schedule and confirm that tenants follow through.
Step-by-Step: How to Change a Furnace Filter
If you’re still in the self-managing camp for now, here’s the basic process:
- Turn Off the Furnace
For safety, switch off the furnace at the thermostat and, if needed, at the power source. This prevents the system from running while the filter is out. - Locate the Filter
Most filters are found in one of two places: -
- Inside the furnace cabinet (behind a service panel)
- In a return air vent inside the home
- Check Filter Size
The dimensions (e.g., 16 x 25 x 1) are printed on the filter frame. Be sure to match these exactly when buying replacements. - Remove the Old Filter
Slide the old filter out carefully to avoid spreading dust and debris. - Install the New Filter
Look for the airflow direction arrow printed on the filter frame. It should point toward the furnace or blower motor. Slide it into place. - Turn the Furnace Back On
Once the new filter is secure, restore power and reset the thermostat. - Dispose of the Old Filter
Seal it in a garbage bag to prevent dust from spreading.
While these steps may seem simple, the real challenge for landlords is maintaining a consistent and ongoing schedule. It’s not a “set it and forget it” task—filters must be replaced consistently to avoid bigger issues.
The Real Problem: Time and Tenant Compliance
When you manage your own rental, you either have to:
- Personally visit the property every few months to change the filter, or
- Trust your tenants to do it—and hope they actually follow through.
Unfortunately, many tenants forget or don’t prioritize this. By the time you find out, the furnace may already be straining under reduced airflow, leading to costly service calls.
This is one of the many reasons owners turn to property management companies in Portland, Oregon. They don’t just collect rent; they ensure preventative maintenance—like furnace filter changes—happens on time, every time.
How Portland, Oregon Property Management Handles It for You
This is one reason many owners choose Portland, Oregon, property management companies. They do more than collect rent—they ensure that preventative maintenance, such as furnace filter changes, happens on schedule. With a finger.
- Professional Vendors: They send qualified maintenance techs to perform the work, ensuring it’s done correctly and safely.
- Tenant Coordination: No awkward scheduling calls or missed appointments—they handle all communication.
- Cost Control: Regular filter changes prevent expensive HVAC repairs, saving you money in the long run.
- Documentation: You get records of when and how the maintenance was done—helpful for both your peace of mind and any warranty requirements.
Why It’s Time to Stop Doing It Yourself
Changing furnace filters may seem like a minor inconvenience, but when you add it to the long list of landlord duties—rent collection, repairs, inspections, marketing vacancies—it’s one more thing pulling you away from your time, family, and bigger investment goals.
By partnering with a Portland, Oregon, property management company, you turn these hands-on tasks into a streamlined, stress-free process. You no longer have to worry about whether the filter’s been changed, whether the tenant is compliant, or whether the furnace will break down at the worst possible time.
Ready to simplify your rental property maintenance? Contact a Portland, Oregon, property management company today to delegate tasks like furnace filter changes and experience stress-free ownership. Take the first step towards freeing your time and growing your portfolio.
Learn more about the property management services that we can offer you by calling us at (503) 646-9664 – Talk to a Live Person – Our office answers the phone 9 AM to 5 PM Monday through Friday – or click here to connect with us online.
