As an African American woman in the early 1900s, Alice H. Parker likely encountered significant racial and gender biases in education, employment, and access to resources. These biases could have posed challenges in pursuing her scientific and inventive endeavors.

Securing funding and investment for inventions was difficult for many inventors, but even more so for minorities and women during this era. Parker may have faced obstacles in obtaining the financial backing needed to develop and market her heating system invention.

African Americans and women were significantly underrepresented in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields during Parker's time. This lack of representation could have made it more challenging to find mentors, collaborators, and opportunities for professional growth.

Even after obtaining a patent, bringing an invention to market requires significant resources and entrepreneurial skills. Parker may have faced challenges in commercializing her heating system due to limited access to manufacturing, distribution networks, and marketing expertise.