Any experience with Hybrid Gas Heaters?

[GJinVA]

So my 50gal. gas tank heater has given up the ghost and needs to be replaced. I'm trying to decide if it's worth going with a tankless or hybrid and found that the Hybrid™ Gas Water Heater HYB90N from AO Smith qualifies for a 30% tax credit on materials & install because it has a 90% efficiency. It claims somewhat lower install cost and a steady supply of hot water because of the hybrid design. Anyone have any experience with this model? It's been out for a couple of years now. Also, I've heard AO Smiths quality can vary which is a concern as the warranty on this unit is only 6 years so any feedback on experience with their products would be helpful.

Lastly, I should add that I have a softener, so the scale and cleaning issue should not be a big concern.

Regards, GJ

 

[phishfood]

I have not installed the A.O. Smith hybrids. I have installed quite a few GE hybrids, so I might be able to be of help on the "general installation" part.