The fake flames are one switch and the heater is on another, I have th turn the heater off and on many times before it will run quietly, most of the time it squeaks then kicks its self off, why

Need make and model number of the unit. We have no idea what you have and how it works until more details provided.

Since it "squeaks" there must be some sort of fan or motor in it that needs lubrication.

It must be the fan motor. I believe it is the only item that could be making a noise in a unit like you have.