Humber/Ontario Real Estate Course 2 Exam Practice

Which characteristic is true of a zero clearance fireplace?

1. Requires a footing due to its weight.

2. Have a better efficiency rating than traditional fireplaces.

3. Must be connected to a traditional flue and chimney.

4. Requires a min. 24" (0.61 m) clearance from combustible materials.

5. Utilizes a standard chimney system.

6. Cannot be installed in apartments and multi-unit dwellings.

The correct answer is: Have a better efficiency rating than traditional fireplaces.

A zero clearance fireplace is designed to be safe for installation in close proximity to combustible materials such as wood framing or paneling. This is achieved by using insulated walls and air circulating around the unit to prevent excessive heat buildup. This feature makes zero clearance fireplaces more efficient in terms of design and space utilization compared to traditional fireplaces, which require a significant amount of clearance from combustible materials. Therefore, the correct characteristic that is true of a zero clearance fireplace is that it has a better efficiency rating than traditional fireplaces. Option A is incorrect because zero clearance fireplaces do not necessarily require a footing due to their weight. Option C is incorrect because zero clearance fireplaces do not need to be connected to a traditional flue and chimney since they are self-contained units. Option D is incorrect because zero clearance fireplaces require minimal clearance from combustible materials, not a minimum 24" clearance. Option E is incorrect because zero clearance fireplaces do not utilize a standard chimney system. Option F is incorrect because zero clearance fireplaces can be installed in apartments and multi-unit dwellings as long as they meet the necessary safety and building code requirements.