PLMBWizardz
My suggestion first would be to check out Rheems site on the recalls they have had on that model of water heater. Then proceed from there. If new water heater is needed then do not buy another rheem. Get a State water heater. As i have been a plumber for over 25 years and only one water heater have i ever replaced that was over 20 years old and not busted would be a State water heater.
