The US patent system was well-established by the time Parker applied for her patent. This framework allowed inventors to protect their intellectual property and encourage innovation, although it also presented challenges in terms of navigating legal requirements and potential infringement issues.

Coal was the most common source of heating in homes and businesses. However, it presented challenges in terms of air pollution, storage, and manual operation. Parker's invention sought to address these drawbacks by using natural gas.

Central heating systems, often using steam or hot water, began to gain popularity. These systems offered improved heating efficiency and comfort compared to individual stoves or fireplaces. Parker's invention contributed to the development of more advanced and efficient central heating technologies.

The infrastructure for natural gas distribution was gradually expanding in urban areas. This trend made natural gas a more viable option for home heating, paving the way for inventions like Parker's gas heating furnace.