Ok, I have ran into some odd configurations before but I ran into something I have never seen before until today. So I have to ask.
The air handler for the downstairs is located in a closet off the kitchen. The return is in the hallway. When I opened it to check the filter it was dirty. I removed the filter to find the primary and secondary condensate lines run through the return cavity down into the slab then to the exterior. There was no return air duct or sealed metal housing at all, just a framed and drywall box leading into the air handler. The unit was taped off around the connection between the air handler and the box.
First, is it acceptable to not have a sealed metal housing or duct leading from the return into the air handler in a closet?
Second, if so, is it then acceptable to run the condensate lines back through this return air cavity?
Seems like this would lead to many problems if a leak developed in the condensate drain lines.