//Quick answer
- Same installed range for all three.
- Want built-in recirculation? That points one way. Replacing an existing unit? That points another.
- Dealer tiers are unconfirmed for all three; none is claimed.
01Definition
What do the three have in common?
All are established tankless manufacturers with condensing lines, all are units Done-Rite installs and services, and all carry the same installed range and the same 1 year minimum labor warranty. Manufacturer warranty handling varies by manufacturer.
What are the practical differences?
Navien is associated with condensing units that offer built-in recirculation options, a fit for homes with a long wait for hot water. Noritz and Rinnai both offer condensing and non-condensing lines, which can matter on a retrofit where the venting path favors one unit type. Rinnai's large installed base makes parts and service knowledge easy to come by. Beyond that, the recommendation follows the house.
02Which fits
When does the house decide?
An existing tankless being replaced usually stays with its brand for a straightforward swap. A long run to the master bath points toward recirculation. A venting path that will not take a condensing unit points toward a non-condensing line. The technician looks at the gas, the vent and the demand before naming a unit.
When does it not matter much?
A standard install on a typical household with a clear venting path. Any of the three will do the job, and the price is the same.
//Side by side
Navien
- Condensing units with built-in recirculation options
- Fit for long hot-water runs
- Condensing venting and condensate drain required
Noritz
- Condensing and non-condensing lines
- Long track record as a tankless specialist
- Recirculation is an add-on rather than built in on some lines
Rinnai
- Widely installed; parts and service knowledge easy to find
- Condensing and non-condensing lines
- Recirculation is an add-on rather than built in on some lines
03What goes wrong
What goes wrong regardless of brand?
Scale from hard water without descaling, undersizing for simultaneous demand, and an undersized gas supply. Brand does not protect against any of them; the install and the maintenance do.
04Proof
- Jason Shen, Google, September 16, 2026: "Daniel did an excellent job installing my whole house carbon filtration and water conditioning system. He also flushed out my tankless water heater."
- 1 year minimum warranty on labor. Manufacturer warranty handling varies by manufacturer.
- When a job needs a permit, Done-Rite pulls it and schedules the inspection.
- California CSLB C-36 licence #998069. Licensed, bonded and insured, with workers compensation.
05Action
Have the crew size it for your house
$4,000 to $6,000 installed for any of the three, permit pulled when required, 1 year minimum labor warranty. Financing available with terms up to 10 years.
//Keep going
Compare
//Terms used in this guide
Where this applies
Done-Rite runs these calls across Orange County from its shop in Anaheim, CA, with no trip charge in any city it serves.
