I own a Rheem Power Vent with powerglo ignition system - model # 21 vp50-1 50 gal, serial # rn 089d06577 ---i've noticed water on the floor around the water heater, i thought maybe the tank was rusting out and leaking - couldn't really feel any water on the surface of the tank bottom - i invited a friend plumber over and he suggested that possibly (he has seen) that over time the plastic drain value will begin to drip....any thoughts on this "thought"? don

1) Copy following link to troubleshoot by type of gas control valve:
http://waterheatertimer.org/How-to-troubleshoot-gas-water-heater.html#intellivent

2) Replace gas control valve.

If you need further help, I’m available over the phone at https://www.6ya.com/expert/gene_9f0ef4df2f9897e7

Why is it always Rheem problems?
Every water heater problem is Rheem.
And Rheem doesn't post any service manuals, like the other two big manufacturers, AO Smith-American, and Bradford White.

Copy following link for troubleshoot by gas control valve.
http://waterheatertimer.org/How-to-troubleshoot-gas-water-heater.html#intellivent

Scroll up and find pressure switch heading among links.

You can install gas control valve yourself.
http://waterheatertimer.org/pdf/How-to-replace-water-heater-gas-valve.pdf

If you need further help, I’m available over the phone at https://www.6ya.com/expert/gene_9f0ef4df2f9897e7

Hi,
First off the unit model number that you listed has no power vent blower...was a separate one added???

Next... you really need to get a second opinion...that plumber trying to take you for a ride.. and charging way too much!!!

At the very least you should be able to just replace the blower unit...only and not both...for much less money....a straight change out should be very easy...

Find another quote or two even!!

heatman101

Before calling service technician, read manual for troubleshooting and yearly maintenance requirements.
Open following links to identify same-similar product and download manual.
Once you have product showing on page, click 'specs-docs' tab to see use-and-care manual.
http://www.rheem.com/product.aspx?id=C24E3F52-A6A4-4BC7-AF5B-0DF23A7A0263
http://www.rheem.com/Products/tank_water_heaters/gas_water_heaters
http://globalimageserver.com/fetchDocument.aspx?id=c0471d58-5e59-4be6-96f7-68361b8fb515
Rheem site loads slow, and some manuals never load.
Typical power vent manual:
http://waterheatertimer.org/pdf/Rheem-power-vent-manual.pdf

I believe the 21VP is older and Rheem does not show older manuals, but manuals are generally generic enough to help greatly. Year of manufacture show as second and third digit of serial number.

Lockout condition requires service technician and part replacement, or call Rheem and have them send part.
I found one link that talks about FV lockout that may or may not pertain to your issue:
http://www.diychatroom.com/f7/rheem-hot-water-heater-pilot-burner-not-staying-lit-65755/

(sometimes) is hard troubleshoot on an electric water heater,possible there is a voltage issue,such as time usage of appliance for cut rate pricing?

it may be the thermal coupling that is bad for the pilot light. if it goes bad the flame will go out. replace thermal coupling. so if the pilot light is out then it will not heat water. or turn burner on.

Thermostat, element, or the wires leading to the elements. But typically it is the elements that go.

Yes manfactured on or around 1999.

if you have the exhaust run together it will not light up,, they have to be seperate,, the computer board sences the unburnt gasses and will not allow it to start,,

there is a screen around the bottom of the unit? if so take it off and clean it,, does this unit have a self ignitor, or is it piliot? make sure your flue is clear so the unit is not over heating,, make sure on the power vent that the filter is clear also,, does the fan come on before the gas ignites, if not the circuit board is going bad the fan should start first to omit the gas fumes