Nathan Weistein discords Arkady Chase assessment of Aquarius North Tower humidity and temperature levels
Arkady Chase wrote several notes regarding the humidity and temperature in the hallways of the Aquarius North Tower. Here are some of Mr. Chase’s notes regarding the issue. Nathan Weinstein believes that these observations are incorrect.
Response to Mr. Chase’s Comments Regarding North Tower Corridor Humidity
July 16, 2026.
Dear Board Members and Fellow Owners,
I have carefully reviewed Mr. Chase’s recent response regarding the North Tower corridor humidity issue. While I appreciate his concern regarding the condition of the building, I believe several conclusions in his response are presented as established facts without supporting documentation, engineering analysis, or independent verification. I therefore offer the following comments for the Board’s and owners’ consideration.
- Assertions Regarding Building History: Mr. Chase states that the North Tower did not experience persistent humidity problems prior to the installation of the rooftop HVAC equipment around 2015 and describes this as a matter of building history. However, no maintenance records, engineering reports, historical humidity data, or documented statements from long-term residents have been presented to substantiate this conclusion. Likewise, no documented evidence has been provided establishing that a corridor humidity problem began immediately following the 2015 installation. If elevated corridor humidity has existed continuously since 2015, it is reasonable to ask whether there are historical records documenting that condition, including owner complaints, Board discussions, maintenance records, or engineering evaluations during that period. To date, presented photographs showing humidity and temperature reading, has been presented without identifying the date, exact location, or testing conditions. Such limited information is insufficient by itself to establish a long-term building-wide condition.
- Florida Statute 718.113: I fully agree that the Association has a statutory responsibility under Florida Statute 718.113 to maintain, repair, and replace common elements, including HVAC systems, when necessary. However, the statute does not establish a specific corridor humidity requirement, nor does it require that corridor humidity be maintained below 60 percent relative humidity. The commonly referenced 60 percent relative humidity value is generally associated with industry guidance/recommendation–it is not, by itself, a statutory requirement contained within Florida Statute 718.113. Whether the Association has fulfilled its maintenance obligation depends upon the actual condition and performance of the HVAC system, as determined through appropriate evaluation, documentation, and professional analysis.
- Engineering Conclusions Require Engineering Evidence: Several statements contained in Mr. Chase’s letter appear to represent engineering conclusions rather than established facts. For example, he states or implies that: the 2015 rooftop HVAC system or installed AHU unit are the cause of the corridor humidity issue and that repairing or replacing the rooftop equipment alone will resolve the condition, other possible contributing factors can be excluded. Those are not professional opinions. Based on documents the previous old system, Aquarius had before 2015, experienced similar problems we have today with new system. Therefore it is reasonable to say there are other factors contributing to issues we experience with HVAC systems: HVAC equipment design; equipment operation or maintenance; building pressurization; air distribution; occupancy patterns; uncontrolled flow of outside air into a building, or conditioned air out of it or a combination of these factors. Determining the actual cause requires evaluation by a qualified mechanical engineering professional rather than assumptions and demands.
- ASHRAE Standards: Mr. Chase states that documented humidity levels have been approximately 70 percent and that these levels exceed ASHRAE recommendations. However, no comprehensive humidity records identifying measurement locations, dates, duration of testing, instrumentation used, or testing methodology have been provided to support this statement. ASHRAE standards generally provide engineering guidance regarding comfort, indoor environmental quality, and system design. They do not automatically establish legal requirements for every existing condominium corridor. Similarly, there is no Florida law stating that replacement of HVAC equipment automatically requires compliance with unspecified “modern operational performance standards.” Whether a replacement system complies with applicable requirements depends upon the approved design documents, permits, codes, and engineering criteria applicable at the time the work was performed.
- Corridor HVAC Outage: If the corridor HVAC equipment was inoperative for several months, as stated, and was in fact documented by management, that condition could certainly have contributed to elevated temperature and humidity levels during that period. However, a temporary equipment failure does not by itself establish that the original system design was defective or that complete replacement of the rooftop equipment is currently required. It is my understanding that management, based on reporting and acknowledgements emailed to community, has continued making reasonable efforts to maintain and repair the existing equipment whenever practical in both buildings. It is important to mention that each tower has tandem (2) chillers and 4 compressors. That means for system to be completely down all compressors should not work. My understanding is this was not a case, and although not at 100%, HVAC system was partially operating than, which means there was sufficient fresh and conditioned air supply in corridors.
- Clarification Regarding My Preliminary Cost Estimate: Mr. Chase criticized my discussion of potential HVAC replacement costs. For clarification, my estimate was never presented as a final construction cost or engineering estimate. It was intended solely as an illustrative planning estimate to help owners understand the possible financial magnitude should major HVAC modifications ultimately become necessary. My professional background includes many years as an estimator and project manager for a mechanical contractor company specializing in HVAC systems. My responsibilities included preparing construction estimates, developing project budgets, and managing HVAC installation and renovation projects for schools, municipal buildings, hospitals, and other commercial facilities. My preliminary budget estimate was based primarily upon a mechanical contractor’s estimate provided approximately 3 years ago for replacement of one rooftop air-handling unit. Considering current increased material costs, labor escalation, structural requirements, roofing modifications, electrical work, helicopter lifting services, testing and balancing, permitting, and other associated construction activities, I believe the replacement cost of one rooftop air handling unit could reasonably approach approximately $1.2 million. If a consulting engineer ultimately determines that Energy Recovery Units (ERUs) or other significant modifications are required, the overall project cost could increase accordingly. Actual construction costs can only be determined after a licensed engineer completes an evaluation, prepares design documents, and competitive bids are obtained from qualified contractors. Preparing preliminary planning budgets has been a routine part of my professional responsibilities and serves only to assist owners in understanding potential future financial obligations.
- My Field Measurements: On July 10, 2026, 3:00PM I conducted field measurements after I received new PROTMЕХ HT607, calibrated handheld hygrometer/thermometer, at several locations on multiple floors of the North Tower. The purpose of these measurements was to obtain current field data regarding actual corridor environmental conditions. These readings represent conditions at the time of testing and are not intended to replace a long-term environmental monitoring study.
Floor 3: at Apartment #1: 55.0% RH — 76.6°F;at Elevator Lobby: 58.3% RH — 77.2°F;at Apartment #5: 60.7% RH -74.9°F
Floor 12:at Apartment #1: 63.0% RH —72.5°F;at Elevator Lobby: 63.8% RH — 75.6°F;at Apartment #5: 63.0% RH — 73.7°F
Penthouse Floor:at Apartment #1: 64.1% RH — 76.3°F;at Elevator Lobby: 64.3% RH — 75.6°F;at Apartment#4: 60.2% RH — 75.1°F
These measurements indicate that, at the time of testing, the corridor environmental conditions did not demonstrate an uncontrolled or extreme humidity condition. However, additional long-term monitoring would be appropriate if the Board determines that further evaluation is necessary.
Conclusion: Several statements in Mr. Chase’s letter appear inconsistent with available historical information and have not been supported by documentation or engineering analysis. Contrary to Mr. Chase opinion stating that issues just started after 2015 new unit was installed, there are unit owners who remember the issues with HVAC equipment were common before 2015. There are also records which prove HVAC system experienced operational and maintenance issues problems while Mr. Chase was on the Board of Directors. I assume because HVAC system was failing then, the decision was made to replace it by installing a new AHU’s. Please see documents attached to this letter stating continuous problems with AHU’s serving corridors before 2015. I am not aware whether a consulting engineering firm was involved in evaluating and selecting the current replacement equipment. However, based on its operating history, including component failures and delays associated with obtaining replacement parts, the current replacement unit has presented reliability and maintenance challenges. The equipment was manufactured by a Canadian company, and several components have required replacement over the years. Because replacement parts have not always been readily available, procurement and delivery have sometimes taken considerable time. During these periods, the corridor HVAC systems had not been operating at 100%, which could result in increased temperature and humidity levels until repairs were completed. It is also noteworthy that approximately 10 years after installation of the current HVAC unit, Mr. Chase began to complain regarding corridor temperature and humidity conditions, including requests that the unit be replaced and statements that the matter might be reported to Association’s Insurance Carrier and government authorities. The temperature and humidity measurements obtained on July 10, 2026, at three different locations on three separate floors indicate that corridor environmental conditions were within reasonable ranges at the time of testing. These measurements support the conclusion that no uncontrolled humidity condition was demonstrated on the date measurements were taken. No mechanical HVAC system is expected to operate without occasional maintenance or repairs. Therefore, decisions regarding replacement of the existing corridor HVAC system should be based on documented engineering evaluations, equipment reliability, maintenance history, life-cycle costs, and objective performance data. I agree that the corridor humidity issue deserves careful evaluation if the community believes a persistent problem exists. However, before significant expenditures or major HVAC modifications are considered, I believe the Board should first obtain an independent evaluation by a qualified mechanical engineering firm, if community decided to do it, not based on opinion of just one person. That evaluation should identify the actual cause of the reported humidity conditions, determine whether the existing system is capable of achieving its intended design performance, and recommend the most practical and cost-effective corrective action. Only after such an engineering assessment is completed should the Board determine whether repairs, equipment replacement, or other modifications are justified. Until then, the community should distinguish between established facts, professional engineering, HVAC vendors conclusions, and individual opinions.
Respectfully,
Nathan Weinstein
Attachement:
1.From: Date: Thu, 23 May 2013 18:01:27 +0000 To: ; ; Subject: RE: Compressors Well, does that explain why the hallways are warm?? We signed the agreement with Carrier to come out and do a full inspection. Let’s see what they have to say. If it is a replacement, let’s get bids for the rebuild and replacement work, the warranties on both and go from there. Not operating for a week is an issue. I recommend we add auxiliary switches on the contactors so we know the status of the contactor. We should be able to at least get the contactor status signaled to us. We should think about adding monitoring equipment that we can send data to the office. Thanks, 2.From: Arkady [mailto:arkady.chase@gmail.com] Sent: Thursday, May 23, 2013 1:49 PM To: aquariusmgr@comcast.net; Subject: Compressors I just spoke with an Air Management technician David, who fixed and started Compressor #1 in the South building. So far so good. However, I went up with him to the North Tower compressor room, where one of the compressors was apparently not working for almost a week. David tried to start it, but then suggested that based on the sound of it, and a pattern of operation, the compressor is broken and needs to be replaced (or rebuilt). We have so far two alternatives: to go with Air Management, or engage Carrier. In either case, we most likely are looking to spend a substantial sum of money. Arkady, 3.From: Arkady Sent: Thursday, June 13, 2013 10:09 PM To: Cc: Subject: Compressor for North Tower Let’s proceed with the compressor change. It is very hot in the hallways. Arkady, 4.From: Sent: Thursday, June 13, 2013 9:49 AM To: Jerry Chambers-Aquarius Manager Cc: Arkady; Subject: Re: Compressor for North Tower Hi! Jerry Did we pay Carrier the proposed $3500? Will it be a NEW or reconditioned compressor? Thanks for bringing cost down, anything helps. Think it has to be done Thanks. Sent from my iPad On Jun 13, 2013, at 9:39, “Jerry Chambers-Aquarius Manager” wrote: Dear Board Members: I went back to Air Management and was able to negotiate some credits on the previous work on the compressors for the two towers. The original proposal to replace the North Tower compressor that is broken came in at $12,802.00. With the negotiated credits, the new cost is $11,429.09 and includes the superheat resetting to prolong the life of the compressor. I recommend that we move forward on this item as we have heard nothing back from Carrier. Jerry M. Chambers, LCAM Aquarius Condominium 2751 S Ocean Dr Hollywood, FL 33019 O: 954 921-7924 Fax 954-921-9768, 5. From: Brian Seidler, LCAM Sent: Thursday, January 30, 2014 9:48 PM To: Cc: Subject: South Building A/C Compressors Importance: High Good afternoon Board: Arkady Chase Bob Dolan from Airstron sent a technician named Craig out to troubleshoot our two compressors that were found to be inoperable in the south building. Compressor # 1, on the right when you enter the room was found with a blown circuit. The part was removed from compressor # 2 and # 1 was returned to service. Compressor # 2 was found to have shut down as designed with a low pressure alarm. The unit was found with no gas as it had leaked from a line fracture. This fracture is believed to have been caused by vibration. Proposals to repair both units and return them to service are being generated by Bob Dolan and will be received soon. Thank you. Brian Seidler, LCAM Property Manager Aquarius Condominium Association, Inc. 2751 South Ocean Drive Hollywood, FL 33019 Office: 954-921-7924 Fax: 954-921-9768 Celluar: 954-559-4911 http://www.aquariuscondo.net Professionally managed by Blue Crest Management “Prudent, Professional, Performance” http://www.bluecrestmanagement.com From: Brian Seidler, LCAM Sent: Friday, January 31, 2014 7:53 PM To: Cc: Subject: South Tower COmpressor #1 Importance: High Arkady Chase Dear Board: I just met with Craig, the Airstron technician sent out to address our compressor issue. The fuse that he repaired yesterday blew again overnight taking the unit out of service. Craig came back this morning and was able to trace a wiring issue and repair it. Thank you. Brian Seidler, LCAМ Property Manager Aquarius Condominium Association, Inc. 2751 South Ocean Drive Hollywood, FL 33019 Office: 954-921-7924 Fax: 954-921-9768 Celluar: 954-559-4911 http://www.aquariuscondo.net Professionally managed by Blue Crest Management “Prudent, Professional, Performance” http://www.bluecrestmanagement.com From: Brian Seidler, LCAM Sent: Wednesday, February 5, 2014 8:13 PM To: Cc: Subject: Compressors Importance: High Good afternoon Bob: Arkady Chase Can you advise when we will receive the repair proposals based upon your technician Craig’s inspection last week of the HVAC compressors that are inoperable? I am receiving numerous complaints of how hot it is in the hallways. Many elderly residents have expressed concern over their respiratory issues being complicated by the lack of cool air. It is important that we address this sooner than later. Thank you sir. Brian Seidler, LCAM Property Manager Aquarius Condominium Association, Inc. 2751 South Ocean Drive Hollywood, FL 33019 Office: 954-921-7924 Fax: 954-921-9768 Celluar: 954-559-4911 http://www.aquariuscondo.net Professionally managed by Blue Crest Management “Prudent, Professional, Performance” http://www.bluecrestmanagement.com From: Sent: Wednesday, July 23, 2014 5:14 PM To: Jeff Levine- Chief engineer Subject: Re: north tower a/c Thank you Jeff. Sent from my iPad On Jul 23, 2014, at 10:38 AM, “Jeff Levine- Chief engineer” wrote: With pyke mechanical we finished the expansion valves on #2 ahu,its now working perfectly, we realized that the one of the compressors that was on by itself the hole time was not cycling properlyunloading. We found that the phase controller was not wired properly, no parts were needed but a couple of hours of labor was,its now cycling properly.When you have multiple issues from shotty prior work the only way to get up and running is to work one problem at a time.we have a good amount of labor envolved in the north tower,the compressor was taken apart all over the floor, one air handler was missing a motor,squirrel cage broken, no Freon, oilect.ect., it took alittle time to evaluate everything,get supplies, labor, we have 72 degrees in the hallways and everything is working properly….
.o0o.
When all else fails, laugh it off.
.o0o.
Aquarius Condominium, Hollywood Florida - Not ACA site 