Sticky, clammy air making your Brevard home feel uncomfortable even with the AC running? You are not imagining it. In coastal Florida, moisture is the real comfort killer and it can also drive up energy bills. In this guide, you will learn practical steps to control humidity, boost HVAC efficiency, and protect your home. Let’s dive in.
Why Brevard homes fight humidity
Brevard’s coastal climate brings high relative humidity most of the year, with summer months at the top of the range. Local data for Melbourne shows average humidity in the upper 70s during peak season, which makes indoor moisture control a constant task (Melbourne climate overview).
Humidity is more than a comfort issue. Keeping indoor relative humidity below 60 percent, ideally in the 30 to 50 percent range, lowers the risk of mold and dust mites and protects finishes and furnishings (EPA guidance on humidity and mold).
How your AC actually removes moisture
Air conditioners dehumidify when warm indoor air passes over a cold evaporator coil and moisture condenses. Longer, steady runtimes remove more moisture than short bursts. Variable-capacity systems that run at lower speeds for longer periods typically control humidity better than single-speed units (DOE Energy Saver on hot-humid cooling).
Watch for short cycling
If a system is oversized, it cools quickly, shuts off, and does not run long enough to pull moisture from the air. Signs include a cold house that still feels sticky and frequent on-off cycling. The fix starts with a professional Manual J load calculation and correct equipment selection using Manual S (ACCA Manual J overview).
Quick wins that work in Brevard
- Change filters regularly during heavy use and keep coils and the outdoor unit clean to maintain airflow and dehumidification. An annual tune-up helps keep everything in spec (Energy Saver maintenance checklist).
- Clear condensate drains and pans so moisture actually leaves your home. Standing water can lead to microbial growth.
- Use bath and kitchen exhaust fans during and after moisture-producing activities to limit indoor load.
- Keep interior doors open when possible so air moves freely across the coil during HVAC runtimes.
Control humidity smarter
Set realistic targets
Aim to keep indoor RH near 45 to 50 percent in summer, and under 60 percent at maximum for health and comfort (EPA humidity range). A smart thermostat or humidistat can hold a setpoint and coordinate your AC or dehumidifier to avoid overcooling.
Add a whole-house dehumidifier when needed
If RH stays above 55 to 60 percent even with the AC running, add a ducted whole-house dehumidifier or diagnose the HVAC for sizing and airflow issues. Whole-home units remove moisture independent of cooling and can tie into existing ducts for balanced results (ENERGY STAR dehumidifier guidance). For best results, integrate controls so the system dehumidifies first and cools only as needed (whole-house dehumidification controls).
Ventilation and ducts matter in our climate
Bring in fresh air without extra moisture
In hot-humid climates, bringing in too much outdoor air without control can overload dehumidification. Balanced, properly sized ventilation and smart controls help meet fresh air needs while keeping humidity in check (whole-house dehumidification guidance).
Keep ducts inside the envelope
Leaky or uninsulated ducts in a hot attic add load and can sweat, creating moisture problems. Moving ducts into conditioned space or upgrading air sealing and insulation reduces humidity loads and protects your home. Florida-appropriate approaches include sealed, conditioned attics when designed and verified correctly (conditioned attic best practices).
Plan your next HVAC upgrade
- Ask your contractor about variable-capacity systems and humidity performance at part load. Longer runtimes at lower speeds typically improve comfort in Brevard’s sticky months (Energy Saver on hot-humid cooling).
- Request a Manual J and Manual S as part of any quote to avoid oversizing and short cycling (Manual J basics).
- Confirm that controls include humidity setpoints and dehumidification logic so your system targets RH, not just temperature (whole-house dehumidification controls).
Local incentives and helpful programs
- Florida Power & Light offers rebates and instant invoice credits for qualifying AC upgrades through participating contractors. Check current details before buying since programs change over time (FPL AC rebates and ways to save).
- Income-qualified homeowners can explore the Brevard County Weatherization Program for air sealing, insulation, and HVAC-related improvements that also reduce indoor humidity (Brevard Weatherization Program).
Staying ahead of humidity in Brevard is part equipment, part controls, and part building science. With the right sizing, smarter dehumidification, and a tighter envelope, you can enjoy cooler, drier air and lower energy waste. If you are thinking about selling, buying, or planning upgrades that boost comfort and value, reach out to the local team that knows Central Florida inside and out. Connect with Orlando A to Z to talk next steps.
FAQs
What indoor humidity level should Brevard homeowners aim for?
- Keep RH ideally around 45 to 50 percent and below 60 percent to reduce mold and dust mites, per EPA guidance.
How do I know if my AC is oversized and causing high humidity?
- Frequent short cycles, rooms that feel cool but sticky, and high RH with the AC on point to oversizing; ask for a Manual J load calculation.
Do I need a whole-house dehumidifier if my AC runs a lot?
- If RH stays above 55 to 60 percent with the AC running, a whole-house dehumidifier or an HVAC sizing and airflow review is warranted.
Will variable-speed HVAC help with moisture in Brevard?
- Yes, systems that run longer at lower speeds typically remove more moisture and provide steadier comfort in hot-humid climates.
What are the best first steps to fix a sticky-feeling home?
- Start with maintenance and airflow, add humidity controls, correct sizing if needed, and consider whole-house dehumidification along with air sealing and duct improvements.
