This is the second time in a month that I have encountered this issue. Both times were in one year old homes.
When I put my hand near (a foot away) the tops of these water heaters I felt excessive heat emanating from the draft hoods. Upon closer inspection I noticed that the plastic grommets where the water supply pipes enter the tops of the heaters were melted. Also, the pipe insualtion was melted (yes, I called out the combustible clearance issue with the insulation as I do on nearly every water heater I see in new construction
).
Both times the b-vents appeared to installed correctly and with listed caps. I recommended that the issue be looked at by a plumber to determine cause and course of repair.
My immediate thought was back drafting? It is definitely a fire hazard.
Any thoughts?
Thanks,
Eric