Bought this for use during Scottish summer, when I turn off the central heating to save money. It's so efficient at heating the sitting room - and cheaper to run - I may rethink my winter heating! Yes you can hear the fan running, but I don't find it intrusive, and the flame effect is quite reasonable for an electric. I wouldnt want to move it from room to room too often, but it is light enough to lift out of the hearth for cleaning, and looks very good when in situ on an unused fireplace. Happy with my purchase.