What type of leaks most commonly occur in the areas with gaskets or fittings in low-pressure systems?

In low-pressure systems, air leaks are the most common type of leak that occurs in areas with gaskets or fittings. These leaks typically manifest when there is a failure in the sealing properties of gaskets or improper sealing at the fittings, allowing ambient air to enter the system. This is particularly problematic because introducing air into a low-pressure system can impact the efficiency of the system, potentially leading to reduced cooling capacity and increased energy consumption.

While liquid leaks and vapor leaks also pose concerns in HVAC systems, they are more frequently associated with high-pressure areas or specific components dealing with refrigerants. Environmental leaks usually refer to situations where harmful substances might escape into the surrounding area, which isn't specifically tied to the common failures at gaskets or fittings in low-pressure systems.

Therefore, the significance of air leaks in low-pressure systems highlights how critical proper sealing at gaskets and fittings is for maintaining system integrity and efficiency.