What type of gas is primarily used for residential heating purposes?

Natural gas is primarily used for residential heating purposes due to its accessibility, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. It is delivered through a vast pipeline network, making it readily available in many areas, especially urban and suburban regions. Natural gas systems provide a steady and controllable heat source, which is ideal for various heating applications in homes, including furnaces, water heaters, and stoves.

Natural gas usually burns cleaner than other fossil fuels, producing less carbon dioxide per unit of energy, which contributes to a lower environmental impact. This aspect makes it a preferred choice for many households seeking to reduce their carbon footprint while maintaining comfort during colder months.

While propane and butane are also used for heating purposes, particularly in rural areas where natural gas supply might be limited, they typically cost more and require specific storage and handling due to their pressurized nature. Carbon dioxide, on the other hand, is not a fuel but rather a byproduct of combustion and does not serve any role in heating.