Internal overflows

Discussion in 'Fish Tank Brands and Kits' started by wastemanagement, Sep 9, 2008.

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  1. wastemanagement

    wastemanagement Eyelash Blennie

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    I would like to know what you all think about the use of the internal overflows , more to the point the preference on the
    *box type at the top (back or side panels drilled) or
    *wall type were the base is drilled.
    is their a preference to which one to choose and what are the reasons for each.
    thanks
    WasteM
     
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  3. Otty

    Otty Giant Squid

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  4. wastemanagement

    wastemanagement Eyelash Blennie

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    Thanx Otty I am sold for sure on drilling the tank I just not sure of the pros and cons as to the wereabouts of drilling
    IE the top back of glass or bottom corners
     
  5. techno2

    techno2 Stylophora

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    Hey, from all that I have been reading on this, drilles holes should perform the same. You get into preference at that point. I will say that I like the idea of the holes at the top so in the event of a leak, damage is mininimal.

    There is a name for a horizontal type overflow, but the name is escaping me at the moment. glass-holes.com has some info on the top OF type and has a video, ect.

    I have gone back and forth so many times it's silly.
    I guess my vote is as follows -

    1.) If you have to drill, on the top overflow for safety concerns and is really hidden because as you stand and look at the tank, the top back few inches is usually hidden.

    2.) Bottom if it comes that way, to risky to drill the bottom if you are not sure if tempered

    3.) Hang on Back if you have no other choice.


    \Cheers
     
  6. gazog

    gazog Kole Tang

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    Take it from someone who has tanks drilled both through the back at the top and at the bottom you don't want to drill at the top! its noisy and hard to quiet down (although it can be done) and the amount of flow is greatly reduced compared to the one that is drilled at the bottom.

    Out of those 3 choices I would drill the back at the bottom. I get much better flow on my 75 which is done that way I was able to use a Durso stand pipe to make it quieter.
     
  7. lunatik_69

    lunatik_69 Giant Squid

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    From my exp. if your going to drill a tank and your not confident about doing it, let a prof. do it. I rather spend $15-$20 to drill than have to buy a new tank. As for where to drill, I like the bottom. That "chamber" gets dirty very quickly so when it comes time to clean it, all you really have to do is disconnect the return pipe and it washes away all the chit that collects at the bottom like a toilet bowl. Just my 2 cents. Luna
     
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  9. Jason McKenzie

    Jason McKenzie Super Moderator

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    It think it really depends on how you can run your plumbing and if a box that extends to the bottom of the tank will eat up too much space.
    I've had both and do not see any performance or noise difference

    J
     
  10. techno2

    techno2 Stylophora

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    Hey Luna,
    So if I go with the 110 W/ Megaflow, I should be able to silicone the holes at the bottom of the overflow gaurd to be able to stop the water flow, correct ?

    With the default megaflow cover, water enters through a few small holes in the middle and a bunch at the bottom so you could not remove the return.

    So if I silicone the holes, now I am back to being safe again as if there is a leak, it will only be to the top ov the guard.

    The guys at glass-holes says there product flows plenty of water and is quiet. I do not know anyone with it to confirm, just passing along.

    I would think bottom would be better flow, i am just afraid of the whole tank spilling out. Now, if I silicone the holes and remove that fear, maybe the 110 with Megaflow is the way I will go.




     
  11. gazog

    gazog Kole Tang

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    So this 110 gallon tank is already drilled right? And all your worried about is covering the openings in the bottom and at the middle of the overflow right?

    That is what a stand pipe is for, if you use a stand pipe you should not have any problems like the one you are worried about.

    If you cover the holes in the overflow it will interfere with the proper operation of the overflow.
     
  12. techno2

    techno2 Stylophora

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    If the bulkheads leak , is my concern.
    With the holes covered it is a sealed container to drain as Luna descibed.

    I suspect it could hamper some, but the Megaflow is the only one that is like that, all others seem to be solid guards.

    The holes are really small so I suspect the rock wall, and debris will block them anyway.

    I guess I am too nervous of leaks, and would sacrafice a few GPH over peace of mind.