I'm considering one (or two).  It usually gets down to -20F where I am and I need a way to heat a garage.  At 140W and as low as $130 USD, seems like a good idea.  Except that I am concerned about it's 'openness'.  Looks like I'm getting a very locked down device.  A literal "black box" in this case.

Is this the experience from most people?  Does it lack a web UI, is it app controlled only?  Does it phone home?