Why it matters to you
Most older Charleston homes stand on crawlspaces, and in Lowcountry summers open vents usually add moisture rather than remove it — a meaningful share of that damp air rises into your living space and makes the AC work harder.
Practical guidance
Watch for mustiness strongest when the AC starts, clammy air, sweating ducts, or standing water under the house. Fix bulk water first with grading, downspouts, or a sump, then address ground moisture with a vapor barrier before considering encapsulation.