Gas to power stoves and heat homes in rural areas

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the types of gases used for powering stoves and heating homes in rural areas, particularly focusing on the differences between natural gas, propane, and butane. Participants explore the availability of these gases in portable containers and their applications in residential heating and cooking.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants note that rural areas often rely on portable gas containers for stoves and heating, as utility companies may not provide gas directly.
  • There is uncertainty about the specific types of gas used for heating homes, with some suggesting that propane and natural gas can both be used.
  • One participant questions whether the tanks seen in stores are primarily for heating homes or if they are mainly for grills.
  • Another participant clarifies that "natural gas" is primarily composed of methane and distinguishes it from butane and propane, which are typically found in portable containers.
  • There is a discussion about the terminology used for gas appliances, questioning whether they should be referred to as heaters or furnaces.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying opinions on the types of gas used for heating and cooking, with no consensus reached on the specific applications of portable gas tanks or the terminology for gas appliances.

Contextual Notes

Some statements rely on personal experience and may not reflect broader usage or definitions. The discussion includes assumptions about the availability and application of different gas types in rural settings.

stickythighs
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I know that people in rural areas can't get gas to power their gas stoves and furnaces (to warm their houses) from the utility companies. The gas must be put in portable containers and transferred to the houses. I often see propane gas tanks for sale at grocery stores and Wal-Marts, etc.

What is natural gas?

What type of gas do people generally use to power gas stoves?

What gas do people usually use to heat their houses? When people use an appliance that uses gas to heat their houses, is that appliance called a heater or a furnace?
 
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I don't know for sure, but I don't think that the tanks you see at walmart are used to heat homes. I guess they could be, but they're usually just for grills. Natural gas is usually used to power gas stoves -- at least in my experience. But, I think that both propane and gas can be used to heat a home.
 
antibio said:
I don't know for sure, but I don't think that the tanks you see at walmart are used to heat homes.

Ditto.


Natural gas is usually used to power gas stoves -- at least in my experience.

Is natural gas gasoline in its nonliquid, nonsolid (gas) state?


But, I think that both propane and gas can be used to heat a home.

Come to think of it, I know that propane can be used to heat a home because my parents have a propane heater at their house.
 
"Natural gas" is mostly methane.

Portable containers usually hold butane or propane.

Static containers for domestic heating are filled with LPG (liquified petroleum gas) in this country.
 

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