This was fairly easy to put together myself. Once you sort out all the parts  follow the directions page by page, its easy. It took me about 6 hours being sleep deprived due to moving in  stopping to run behind 3 kids....I did it! Even though its summer time, I tested the heat for a couple minutes. Yes, it does work well. Look real  very nice. I recommend this  it is a great price when you get it on sale. I look cozy. You can just turn it on for heat or leave the heater off  just use the lit up fireplace.