the sequence works like this: thermostat says need heat, turns on pump, pump circulates hydronic floor, the fluid movement triggers the bladder to heave, opening the switch which opens the gas valve and starts the ignitor at the same time, the igniter is on a 10 sec timer, its a pizo like on your grill, the flames run, heating the water until the thermostat says warm enough and shuts the pump off.
Where I think the break down was happening is the bladder isn't moving enough, prob has a tear or is weak, mainly because this type of heater is meant to be used 10 or 15 gal at a time because its for remote location showers and hot water on demand, and while it worked fine for the past month, i have been using it more than it was likely to see in 10 years of cabin or RV/camping use. That still doesn't account for shoddy workmanship, but it does explain why the whole house units are $1000 and the hobby units are $250. It is a quality of parts equation and you get what you pay for.
Anyhow, let me know if anyone has any feedback one way or another.