Gas tankless water heaters often struggle with hard-water scale, which reduces life expectancy and performance. This year, A. O. Smith launched the Adapt Premium Condensing Gas Tankless Water Heater with X3 Scale Prevention Technology. These tankless units use scale-control cartridges that alter the molecular structure of hard-water minerals, preventing scale buildup and doing away with the need for regular de-scaling maintenance.

The X3 technology promises to triple the water heater’s lifespan when compared to unprotected units, and to maintain peak performance. Moreover, these A. O. Smith units are designed to enhance efficiency with a patented heat exchanger and high-modulation combustion system that allows for up to a 22:1 turndown ratio. They can be converted from natural gas to propane and are compatible with 1/2-in. or 3/4-in. gas lines and 2-in. or 3-in. PVC venting.

Available in sizes ranging from 160,000 Btu to 199,000 Btu, these water heaters support both indoor and outdoor installations. A. O. Smith also offers condensing units with a built-in recirculation pump, bringing instant hot water at every fixture in the home. A. O. Smith has the only tankless water heaters available today with this built-in scale-prevention technology, and the company offers a 15-year warranty against scale-related heater-exchange damage.

Prices vary, but builders and plumbers can reach out to their local rep or email A. O. Smith at [email protected] for pricing on specific product configurations.

— Fernando Pagés Ruiz, a builder and ICC-certified residential building inspector

From Fine Homebuilding #326

RELATED STORIES

• Tankless Water Heaters
• Choosing an Efficient Water Heater
• Tankless Water Heater Installation Quirks and Tips

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