Natural gas is a vital component of the global energy mix and has a rich and diverse history. Through its significant role in shaping our society, driving industrialization, and fueling technological advancements, natural gas has influenced human development throughout history.
Today, we'll examine natural gas's pivotal role in the contemporary energy landscape, from its crucial contribution to electricity and heating systems to its potential as a cleaner alternative to other fossil fuels. We'll also address the risks to the public, environmental implications, and ways to keep yourself and your loved ones safe. Ultimately, natural gas is a hugely important resource in our modern world.
What is Natural Gas?
Natural gas is an energy source derived from fossil fuels. The most significant component is methane, but it also includes other gases like carbon dioxide and water vapor. Natural gas is a versatile energy source that can be used for various purposes, including heating and electricity generation. It is considered a cleaner fossil fuel compared to coal or oil, as it produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions, and it is a valuable resource due to its abundance and distribution worldwide, playing a significant role in global energy markets.
Where Does Natural Gas Come From?
It is called “natural” gas because of how it is created: naturally. Over hundreds of thousands of years, natural gas has been formed from the remains of decomposing organisms underground. Eventually, pressure and heat transform these remains into coal, oil, and gas. It is usually found in cracks between large rock formations and inside more porous rocks, but it can also be found in oil deposits and under the ocean floor.
How is it Sold and Used?
Natural gas is typically obtained through drilling or fracking. After it is collected, different elements, including sulfur, nitrogen, and more, are removed before it is sold and distributed. Chemicals are then added to protect consumers and give it the infamous “rotten egg” smell (mercaptan) since, in its pure form, natural gas has no scent. It is then pumped through pipelines or given to companies who store and distribute it to their customers.
Natural gas is frequently used in our day-to-day lives and is an essential energy source. Some of the most popular ways it is used in homes and businesses include:
- Stovetops and ovens
- Water heaters
- Space heaters
- Fireplaces
- Pool heaters
- Some dryers
- Grills
Be sure to remain informed about which gas appliances in your home or business use natural gas as an energy source.
Natural Gas Risks
Natural gas is a great resource and outranks its competition in economic benefits and in the reduction of pollution, though like anything, it does come with some risks. Therefore, it’s best to protect yourself.
Keep Yourself Protected
Natural gas safety through education and awareness is vital.
Stay informed on how to protect yourself from natural gas leaks and have a plan in case of emergency is the most important way to keep you and your loved ones safe. Our natural gas safety blog is an excellent resource for home and business owners looking to improve their current safety protocols.
Additionally, there are a variety of natural gas detectors on the market that can help you detect a leak in your home or business so you can keep yourself and others safe. Adding a natural gas alarm to your home allows you to maintain the convenience of your current gas-powered appliances and ensure safety and peace of mind throughout your home.
Our DeNova Detect natural gas alarm is a top-of-the-line modern natural gas detector developed using superior patented sensor technology that detects a gas leak 11 minutes sooner than our competitors. It is the only residential battery-powered natural gas alarm in the U.S. with a six-to-ten-year battery and product service life. Our mission is to protect people and property and we have been doing so for over six decades.
If you want to learn more ways a natural gas alarm can keep you and your family safe, contact us at support@denovadetect.com.
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