Where are the legitimate gas tankless water heaters manufactured

I was recently reading an article that someone wrote in regards to gas tankless water heaters that are being sold on eBay and the rest of the internet.  This article (and subsequent product lines) are stating that they are manufactured in the US.  Well, here is the truth;  there are about 7 legitimate gas tankless water heater manufactures selling in the US; Rinnai, Noritz, Takagi, Eccotemp, Paloma, Bosch, Rheem.  All of them  (in addition to the "made in USA" banner) are manufacturing, or use components manufactured in China.  In fact, most (if not all) of these companies get their heat exchangers, circuit boards, and other components from the exact same suppliers.

I have seen a few new models come on the market lately as well.  One thing for certain, anyone with $100K can buy a container full of tankless water heaters (after all, the rest of the world uses tankless as their water heating source).  However, what you cannot buy is the knowledge, service, understanding, warranty and support that you need for a tankless water heater.  The brand is what you are investing in - as well as a quality, guaranteed product and service.  Be sure to check and see if they are GAMA (gas appliance manufacturers association) certified!   The other sure tell sign is if you have national home builders putting the units in.  If they are a water heater company, then they should have a list of home builders that can verify these are in fact, legitimate appliances. 

Whether it is a point of use system or a true whole house appliance, if a company does not offer everything you need or at least the knowledge of where to find the products - then they are simply a reseller.  Do not be afraid to ask questions and references.  It can be the difference between purchasing a fantastic unit that will supply hot water while reducing your energy bill for the next 15-20 years, or it will having you overwhelmed with feelings of disappointment and disdain for tankless water heaters.  Thanks for reading!