Robert,
My father installed an electric fireplace in his gas fireplace. At
first I didnt like the thought of it since it was so artificial looking
to me...but I came to apreciate it more and more for its maintenance
free features.
I find myself turning it on while we are in the livingroom becasue of
the feel it gives to the room. I know electrics can appear cheazy when
you see them in a showroom, but they kind of grow on you, and it sure
beats messing with tanks or wood.

German Jerry