I bought a lovely fire to go with surround and there should have been heat out of it too. From the day I got it - it went off and cold and very noisy so it puts me off and also puts me off buying a new one.
I think there is a fan inside that blows the little circle thing to give effect of flames which causes the noise so I do think gingebee answer is correct - although very dark and unwelcoming.
I bought my brother last year a fantastic fire - old fashioned type - with 2-3 elements and a fantastic glow - he uses one bar and the glow lights his living room - he told me he wouldn't khow he could have done without it. having said this this wouldnt fit into my surround as it is long but brilliant heat.
One electric firm was charging me nearly £300 and I got it from another firm for £79.99.