I was skeptical when I first purchased this fireplace. I couldn't wait for the sun to go down so that I could test this new product. After the sun went down and I lit my fireplace for the first time I was really disappointed. Until I read the instructions and found that there was a flame adjustment underneath the unit. I played with the unit and was not able to produce the large flames that is shown in the advertisements. But after going online and seeing other similar products and reading the reviews, for the price this product cannot be beat. I don't feel that this unit puts out a whole lot of heat, but I don't think that is what it was made for. As I researched this product, I found that it started out as a ring that you place on top of an outdoor burner for a stove. I guess it sold well and they came out with this product. I do quite a bit of camping and my heart is with a nice wood burning campfire, but I understand the reason behind fire restrictions and I feel that this product will fill that void when wood burning campfires are not allowed. It appears that I might be able to use this product to heat my food and cook my meals. But I don't think I will do it with the ceramic logs on top. Can't see the harm in tossing a skillet on a grate on top of the flame for cooking. It seems this product will not be damaged if used for cooking. Overall, I feel that I am going to be happy with this product - price-wise and usage-wise.