Persistent Air Conditioning problems

On June 9, a concerned Aquarius unit owner submitted a letter to the Board of Directors and Management regarding persistently elevated humidity and temperature levels in the North Tower hallways. aquariusuno.com posted this letter from Mr. Chase. You can see it here.

On June 17, Aquarius Manager Maria Rentas responded, stating that an inspection of the air-conditioning system had been completed and that all equipment was operating properly.

However, current conditions suggest otherwise. Recent measurements continue to show elevated humidity levels comparable to those previously reported, directly contradicting the conclusion that the system is functioning as intended. Record of the humidity in the hallway is 71.4% on June 9 and 68.0% on June 19, 2026 well above to the maximum recommended.

June 9, 2026 Humidity 71.4% Temperature 76.6F Aquarius North Tower Hallway

Humidity levels exceeding 50% in enclosed common areas such as hallways are widely recognized as problematic. Excess moisture creates conditions conducive to mold and mildew growth, may negatively affect residents’ health and comfort, and can contribute to avoidable deterioration of building materials and infrastructure.

June 19, 2026 Humidity 68.0% Temperature 76.6F Aquarius North Tower Hallway

Given the continued presence of these conditions, it is concerning that no effective corrective action appears to have been taken to address the issue. The Board and Management should promptly investigate the cause of the excessive humidity and implement appropriate remedial measures to protect the health, safety, and property interests of all residents.

Here the communications from Arkady Chase, Ph5 and Maria Rentas, Aquarius Manager regarding the matter.

♦♦♦♦♦   From Arkady Chase in response to Maria Rentas  June 17, 2026, 8:47PM

Subject: Continued High Humidity in Hallways – Additional Corrective Action Required

Dear Ms. Rentas,

Thank you for your update regarding the recent review of the North and South Tower hallway HVAC systems.

However, despite the inspection and fuse replacement, the humidity levels in the hallways remain unacceptably high. Residents continue to experience warm, damp air in the common corridors, which indicates that the system is not maintaining proper dehumidification, even if the equipment is technically “operational.”

As you know, maintaining safe and comfortable common areas is a core obligation of the Association. Elevated humidity is not a weather‑related inconvenience—it is a building systems issue that can lead to:

• Mold and mildew growth
• Damage to walls, ceilings, and carpeting
• Deterioration of fire‑rated doors
• Health concerns for residents
• Higher electricity bills
• Excessive wear of individual AC units

In addition to the HVAC concerns, we must also note that the opening in the hallway ceiling near PH6N remains unsealed (see attached), exposing the corridor to outside air and moisture. This condition directly contributes to the high humidity levels and must be addressed immediately. Leaving the ceiling open to the elements undermines the operation of the hallway HVAC system and poses additional risks of water intrusion and structural deterioration.

Accordingly, we respectfully request:

1. A licensed HVAC contractor’s written report confirming the system’s current performance metrics, including temperature and relative humidity readings in the hallways.
2. A clear explanation of what corrective actions will be taken to bring hallway humidity into the normal range (typically 45–55%).
3. Immediate closure and proper sealing of the ceiling opening near PH6N, as this condition is directly affecting hallway environmental control.
4. A timeline for full resolution, as these issues have been ongoing and continue to affect residents daily.

We appreciate the Association’s attention to this matter and look forward to a concrete plan to restore proper environmental conditions in the common areas.

Sincerely,
Arkady Chase
PH5N

♦♦♦♦♦    From: FirstService Residential [mailto:Communications@mc.fsresidential.com]
Sent: Wednesday, June 17, 2026 5:26 PM
To: arkady.chase@gmail.com
Subject: North & South Tower Hallway HVAC Update

Dear Residents,

The North Tower hallway HVAC system recently underwent a comprehensive review. During the review, two fuses affected by recent power surges were identified and replaced. The HVAC equipment itself did not experience a mechanical failure and remains operational. The system is currently functioning as designed.

As part of this review, the South Tower hallway HVAC system was also inspected.

Please keep in mind that the recent increase in outdoor temperatures places additional demand on the building’s cooling systems. In response to current weather conditions, adjustments have been made to the system to help accommodate the increased cooling load.

Please keep unit windows, sliding glass doors, balcony doors, and entry doors closed during periods of elevated temperatures. This helps prevent warm air from entering the building and supports the HVAC system’s ability to maintain comfortable temperatures throughout the common areas.

Residents are also encouraged to operate and maintain their individual air-conditioning systems appropriately during periods of elevated temperatures, as conditions within individual units can affect overall building comfort. The North and South Tower hallways HVAC system continues to be monitored to ensure it is operating as intended.

My Regards,

Maria Rentas, Property Manager

Aquarius Condominium Association, Inc. 

2751 South Ocean Drive | Hollywood, FL 33019
Direct: 954.921.7924  Fax: 954.921.9768
Email: maria.rentas@fsresidential.com

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