Back to Air Conditioning

Posted: November 21, 2025

Owning a home in Florida while spending part of the year up north is incredibly common in Melbourne, Palm Bay, Rockledge, and the surrounding Space Coast areas. But being a “snowbird” also means your HVAC system must operate reliably while you’re hundreds or even thousands of miles away. Florida’s humidity, heat, and hurricane season can create unique risks if your cooling system isn’t properly prepped.

To protect your home, avoid unexpected air conditioner repair, and ensure your system is ready when you return, here’s a complete guide to HVAC care for seasonal homeowners.

1. Set Thermostat Correctly Before Leaving

Your thermostat setting are the most important thing you'll adjust before heading north. 

Recommended settings for season homeowners:

• 77–80°F while away - This keeps humidity under control without wasting energy.
• User a smart thermostat - You can check temperature, huminidity, and system performance from anywhere. 

If your thermostat is outdated or unreliable, Brevard Cooling & Heating can recommend energy-efficient replacements suited for Florida’s climate.

2. Change or Upgrade Your AC Filter

A clogged filter can restrict airflow, cause your indoor coil to freeze, and lead to unnecessary air conditioner repair while you’re away.

Before you leave:

• Replace your filter with a new high-quality pleated filter
• For homes with pets or high humidity, consider a MERV 11–12 filter
• If you’re staying away for 5+ months, leave an extra filter labeled for your caretaker

Clean airflow = less strain on your HVAC system.

3. Prep the Outdoor Unit for Florida Weather

Your outdoor condenser works hard year-round, even when you’re up north. Coastal conditions in Melbourne and the surrounding Brevard County areas make maintenance especially important.

Before heading out:

• Clear all debris, leaves, and plants 2–3 feet around the unit
• Rinse the coil with gentle water pressure to remove salt and dirt
• Ensure the unit is firmly mounted and level

If you use a ductless mini-split, apply the same cleaning and clearance rules to the outdoor unit.

4. Hurricane Season Prep for Part-Time Residents

If you’re away during peak storm season, make sure your HVAC is protected.

• Install a surge protector or have a technician check your existing one
• Tie down or secure small debris around the outdoor unit
• DO NOT cover the condenser tightly — moisture will build up and cause corrosion
• Use smart monitoring to get alerts during storm-related power fluctuations

A maintenance agreement with before and after hurricane inspections is ideal for snowbirds.

5. Schedule Professional Maintenance Twice a Year

For part-time residents, semi-annual maintenance is non-negotiable. You need one visit before you leave and another before you return.

Why?

• Ensures coils are clean and airflow is optimal
• Prevents unexpected breakdowns while the home is empty
• Protects against excessive indoor humidity
• Catches refrigerant issues early (low refrigerant = higher energy bills)
• Keeps your warranty active

A technician can also confirm whether your system is properly sized — many additions or Florida rooms may need a mini-split instead of forcing the main system to cool extra spaces.

6. Know When Replacement Is Better Than Repair

If your system is 12–15 years old, it may be more cost-effective to consider air conditioner replacement instead of repeated repair visits.

Reasons to upgrade:

• New systems have far better humidity control
• Higher efficiency = lower bills while you’re away
• Better protection during long periods of vacancy
• Reduced risk of breakdowns when the home is unattended

Snowbirds: Keep Your Florida Home Protected Year-RoundFor Melbourne, Florida seasonal homeowners, Brevard Cooling & Heating offers maintenance plans, mini-split solutions, air conditioner repair, air conditioner replacement, and precision care designed specifically for Florida’s challenging climate.

📞 Call 321-757-9008 to schedule your seasonal HVAC maintenance before leaving town or when planning your return.

Being away for months at a time doesn’t have to put your Melbourne home at risk. With the right thermostat settings, routine maintenance, and hurricane-season preparations, your HVAC system will stay reliable and efficient until you return.