It really depends on the size tank. Before I got my Python, I ran the water in 5 gallon buckets, added dechlor and then used a 2 quart container to dip it from the bucket and pour into the tank. That was much easier than trying to lift 5 gallons of water and pour without making a mess. Once 75% of the water was out of the bucket, I just poured the rest in since it was lighter and more manageable. For larger tanks where you are changing 10 to 15 gallons or more each time, I would suggest getting a Python (or making one) as it's so much easier.
For temp, unless there's a big difference between the tank temp and the new water temp, you really don't need to worry much about it. Even if it's 20 degrees and you're doing a 25% water change, it would only drop the temp by about 5 degrees and that will be temporary as it will start to come back up relatively quickly. You can also use hot water in the mix to get the temp as close to tank temp as possible. I almost always use some hot water to try to match the temp so there's no change at all.
Cleaning filters depends on type. If you have HOB filters with cartridges, just swish the cartridge in the old tank water (or clean, dechlorinated water) every time you do a water change. Only change the cartridge when it is too tattered and worn to function properly (not every week or 2 as the manufacturers state). For canister filters, I only clean mine every 2 to 3 months. On those occasions, I rinse and squeeze out the sponges in dechlorinated water and then rinse the junk and trash out of the media baskets using clean, dechlorinated water in a bucket.
/www.aqueonproducts.com/products/water-changer.htm
