We have a chilly 600sqft basement that we're looking to heat. Basically we're faced with the option of buying clunky electric heating appliances or changing over our traditional brick fireplace to a gas unit (dealing with wood and ash cleanup are a major PITA). Both the firebox and chimney are in good condition. Gas hookup is a straight run of about 25ft.

Budget is a concern. Can we get a decent gas insert w/ blower and electronic control (remote, switch, or thermostat) installed in the $1500 range? We don't need a designer unit but would like something reliable and well-built.

We're in the Philadelphia,PA area. The few stores I called all said $3000+. Two of them recommended gas logs in my price range, which isn't what we really want.

Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks!