thermally activated automatic vent dampers

[John Arnold]

Anyone have an opinion (Ha,ha, that's a good one, ain't it!) on these things?

I've think I've seem them on boilers before, but never on a water heater.

Yes, I know it's disconnected from the draft hood. There's also a big rotted hole in the middle of the flue connector, so the whole thing got written up.

[neal lewis]

John, I think I've read in a water heater installation manual not to re-install them. They're old and antiquated technology anyway.

[Eric Barker]

I don't like them and I think Neal is correct. I'd recommend that the client give it the heave-ho.

[Rod Butler]

WOW! Although the intent may be good the risk is way too big that the thing could malfunction.

IMO, as a father more than any other reason, I would get rid of it and deal with the minimal loss of heat as a result.