Forgive my stupidity

Not forgiven....

Thanks for the help dick

Sounds like you need a new thermostat. I should automatically reduce flame when the water is heated to the proper temperature.

It's in my cold as frick attic

Well don't fix it in your cold as frick attic and burn your house down. I promise your attic won't be cold anymore.

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guess that depends on where it is....if its in a cold attic or garage, probably. but if its in a warm house, that seems odd. just my 2 cents.

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A smaller tank with colder external temperatures (particularly at the level of the incoming water main) and a high-set thermostat could be at least reasonable as a cause if he doesn't have a pronounced 'jump' in his bill or steady rise in use (not because of price of the gas but because of a failing thermostat that is 'always kicked on'), no?

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constantly on, but this is the actual flame that heats the water

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It's there because your water is too cold.

Ur welcomed.

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But it should heat the water to my specified settings and then eventually kick off, no?

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You said it's a hot water heater, not a cold water heater. Are you certain you have the right kind?

Not sure if serious.....

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hot water heater

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You won't be forgiven for saying this!!!