Adapt™ Standard Condensing

A.O Smith's, ADAPT™ SC Standard Condensing tankless water heaters are available in 160k, 180k and 199k BTU/Hr, These natural gas units deliver a max flow rate of 10.5 GPM. A. O. Smith’s ADAPT™ SC tankless water heaters deliver robust, on-demand performance and the flexibility to install in virtually any residential setting. There are two design options available including models with integrated X3® Scale Prevention Technology, and Bypass (M) models. Easily add scale prevention protection to any M model by replacing the bypass cartridge with an optional X3 cartridge sold separately. Optional X3® Scale Prevention Technology helps maintain like-new performance by protecting the heat exchanger from buildup. X3 Scale Prevention Technology helps protect the heat exchanger resulting in up to three times longer life than a standard tankless water heater while maintaining like-new performance.
The ADAPT™ SC line features a built-in control display for setting and checking heater status and error codes. All models are ENERGY STAR® certified with a Uniform Energy Factor of 0.95 and comply with Ultra-Low NOx regulations.
All ADAPT™ SC models can be installed indoors or outdoors (outdoor vent cap kit sold separately). Cascade up to 12 like heaters for larger applications requiring multiple water heaters to work in conjunction, cable included.
Featured Adapt™ Standard Condensing Products
How it works
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Adapt™ SC, standard condensing tankless water heaters by A. O. Smith offer an efficient solution for continuous hot water supply. Unlike traditional tank systems, it heats water on demand, ensuring you have hot water whenever needed without the energy losses associated with storing heated water.
When the hot water tap is activated, cold water enters the unit, triggering the system to ignite its gas burner. This burner heats the water as it flows through the primary heat exchanger. Then water passes through a secondary heat exchanger, which captures residual heat from the exhaust gases. This dual-exchanger process enhances energy efficiency, achieving a Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) of 0.95, meaning 95% of the energy consumed is effectively converted into hot water.
The Adapt™ SC models are designed for flexibility, allowing installation in various settings, either indoors or outdoors, with an optional vent cap kit. They support PVC venting up to 150 feet, accommodating diverse installation requirements. Additionally, for homes with higher hot water demands, up to 12 units can be linked together, ensuring a consistent and ample hot water supply.
These units feature a built-in control display, enabling users to monitor system status, adjust settings, and view error codes easily. Certain models feature integrated X3® Scale Prevention Technology while the feature can be added as an optional accessory for Bypass (M) models. Patented, the X3 technology provides protection against scale buildup and extends the lifespan of the heat exchanger.
Still Have Questions?
Tankless water heaters offer the option of venting through an exterior side wall instead of through a chimney flue on the roof. Water heaters that are direct venting have two vents — one that pulls in air from the outside and one that carries away exhaust. Power venting water heaters draw air from inside the room and have only a single vent for exhaust. While non-condensing tankless water heaters require thick metal venting to handle the temperature of heat that's released, condensing tankless water heaters can use plastic venting such as PVC. They have already used the hot vapors to heat more water, leaving only cooler fumes for ventilation.
A. O. Smith tankless water heaters boast industry-leading 15 year limited warranties. While the lifespan of a gas tankless water heater can vary, factors like water conditions, usage rates and maintenance all contribute to your water heater’s health. New condensing units come equipped with X3® Scale Reduction Technology that extends life up to three times longer.
Tankless water heaters have different flow rates measured in gallons per minute (GPM), which indicate the amount of water they can deliver at a time. Because these water heaters don't maintain a supply of hot water in a tank, you need to choose an appropriately sized tankless model based on household needs. The ideal output rate for your home depends on the number of people in the residence, the appliances you use, and the original temperature of the water being heated. Some people install more than one tankless water heater based on their requirements. Check out our water heater selector to help choose the best water heater for your needs.
- What do I need?
- Before installation, you will need to determine the incoming ground water temperature, the ideal location in your home, and the correct water heater size required for your needs.
- Where to install?
- A tankless water heater can be installed anywhere in your home with the correct piping—closets, garage, bathrooms, etc. In warmer climates where there is no risk of freezing, a tankless water heater may be installed on the exterior of the home to save on interior space.

ADAPT™ ABILITY
Ultra Flexible. Fewer Trips. More Savings.
Introducing the new Adapt™ Premium Condensing Gas Tankless Water Heaters with X3® Scale Prevention Technology.
Learn About Residential Tankless Water Heaters
What is a Tankless Water Heater?
In this guide, we will explore tankless water heaters in depth. We'll examine the main differences between electric and gas models, how they compare to traditional water heaters, and why it might be good for your wallet to make the switch.
How Do Tankless Water Heaters Work?
Compare tankless to traditional water heaters, and the pros and cons of using a tankless water heater in your home.
Tankless Water Heater Cost
If you're wondering about tankless water heater cost or where to purchase a dependable system, read on to discover what you can expect to pay and how to go about choosing a tankless water heater that meets your specific needs.
Tankless Water Heater Pros and Cons
Tankless water heaters are a space-saving, energy-efficient alternative to traditional tank water heaters. Understanding how these units operate helps you decide whether a tankless water heater is right for your home.

Water Heater Selector Quiz
Use our water heater selector to find the correct water heater for your home.

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A. O. Smith water heaters are professionally installed by local independent contractors.