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Brand guide

A.O. Smith and Takagi tankless water heaters guide

An AO Smith tankless water heater comes from one of North America’s largest water heater makers, and Takagi is a long-standing Japanese tankless brand. Here’s what to know about each.

Updated November 5, 2026 · 3 min read · By Tankless Water Heater Shop Editorial Team · How we write guides

Key takeaways

  • A.O. Smith sells gas and electric tankless water heaters and owns sister brands including State, American Water Heaters and Lochinvar.
  • Takagi offers condensing models such as the T-H3 series and compact non-condensing units.
  • Compare models by flow at your temperature rise, venting type and warranty rather than by brand name alone.

A.O. Smith tankless water heaters

A.O. Smith, headquartered in Wisconsin, makes tank, tankless, heat pump and commercial water heaters. Its tankless lineup includes:

Model numbers often include fuel and venting information. Always check the specification sheet for flow at your temperature rise.

An AO Smith electric tankless water heater is available for point-of-use and small whole-house needs, and you’ll also see AO Smith instant water heater and AO Smith tankless heater used for the same products. A State tankless water heater is part of the same family.

A.O. Smith family brands

Brand What it’s known for
State Water Heaters Professional-channel tank and tankless models
American Water Heaters Residential tank and tankless products
Lochinvar High-efficiency boilers and commercial water heaters

Many shoppers also search for an American Standard water heater; American Standard water heaters are a different brand from American Water Heaters, so compare specifications and warranty terms directly.

Takagi tankless water heaters

A Takagi tankless water heater is a common choice among installers who want a straightforward, serviceable unit.

Takagi is a Japanese tankless water heater brand with a long history in the U.S. market. Its range includes:

Choosing between brands

Compare A.O. Smith and Takagi models with Rinnai, Navien and Noritz on:

  1. Flow at your rise (use the sizing calculator).
  2. Condensing vs non-condensing and vent material (guide).
  3. Warranty terms for the heat exchanger, parts and labor.
  4. Local service support and installer familiarity.

See our best tankless water heaters and other brands compared.

Compare gas tankless units

See current listings with BTU, flow, venting and condition.

Shop gas tankless units

Frequently asked questions

Is A.O. Smith a good tankless water heater brand?

A.O. Smith is one of the largest water heater manufacturers in North America with a broad service network. Its tankless range includes condensing and non-condensing gas units and electric models.

Are State and A.O. Smith tankless water heaters the same?

State Water Heaters is an A.O. Smith brand. Models across A.O. Smith brands often share designs, but names, features and warranties can differ. Compare the spec sheets.

Is American Standard the same as American Water Heaters?

No. American Water Heaters is an A.O. Smith brand, while American Standard is a different brand name. Check the manufacturer listed on the rating plate and warranty.

Is EZ Tankless related to A.O. Smith?

No. EZ Tankless is a separate brand known for portable and point-of-use propane units.

This guide is general information for U.S. homeowners, not professional advice. Gas, electrical and venting work must follow the manufacturer’s instructions and local codes, and in most areas requires a licensed plumber, electrician or gas fitter and a permit. Specifications and prices change; always confirm details on the product page and in the installation manual.