So much heat is lost up the vent (flue) 24/7, is there a way to place a damper on the water heater?
As a chimney sweep on the roof after dark in winter months, I have warmed my hands on the lost heat.

Air heated inside the water heater center tube rises.
As it flows out, it pulls new cool air into the heater at the bottom.
That air is heated by the very hot water and rises up and out.
This convective flow is constant, 24/7.

Does anyone make a damper which will open before allowing the gas to come on?
Does anyone make a forced combustion air water heater?

Thank you,

Robert

You can get a power vented water heater. Or add a power vent to your existing,