We had looked into having a propane fireplace insert installed, but the cost of the installation and related equipment (new tank, flu liner, etc) was going to be as much as the stove. We were looking for something to add some ambiance to the room, add a little bit of heat and have the ease of 'on' and 'off'. This unit has met our expectations and was a fraction of the cost of the propane insert. The heat output is not enough to make the 20' x 18' room hot but it does make a difference and the furnace runs less.