Shortly after I installed this unit in the recess of an artificial fireplace in my home, I had friends over for a party. Every one of them thought that I had installed a gas fireplace insert. The flames and glowing logs are very realistic. The Dimplex won't raise the temperature significantly in a large space, but the heater does the job in taking the edge off the living room and making it much more comfortable without turning up the thermostat. The remote doesn't even have to be pointed at the unit to turn it on and off. Just press the button wherever it sits and you have an instant electric flame show.