built in overflow VS syphon overflow.

I was reading advanced aquarist and they say it's a mistake to use hang on back syphon overflows, i was wondering why is an internal overflow so much better than a separate overflow?

 

The reason is that an over the top hang on style overflow will fail at some point. A built in one can't overflow unless you have too much return pump for the overflow to handle.

 

I kinda dislike internal overflows I think it disturbs the shape of the aquarium too much for my taste.

 

Look into external overflows, all the benefits of a non-siphon system and maintains the aesthetics of not having the overflow inside the tank. Only downside is that you probably will have to have it custom made by someone, or DIY.

For me aesthetics take a back seat when it comes to overflows because the alternative means having another piece of equipment to maintain and another major failure point.

 

oops... i do not agree a utube style overflow if maintained and set up right will not fail. i have used the same one for over 20 years and never had a failure. now on the other hand i would not use a weir style one even if it was given to me they are prone to fail, if for no other reason due to having to use a lifter pump to keep it running. hob overflows in my opinion get a bad rap.......

 

The big word is IF

Internal is the only way to go in my book.

 

Given a choice starting from scratch, I would take an internal overflow every time. Modifying an existing tank is not always feasable so hang ons have their purpose though.
Internals don't have to be normal. I had my LeeMar 100G reef ready built with a custom offset center overflow for just that reason, I didn't want my tank to look like everyone elses. I seem to remember it cost me $25 or something to have it placed where I wanted it and I still received the tank in less than 2 weeks from the order date. Most better LFS can order tanks and you would be surprised to find its not that expensive compared to something they have sitting on the floor. By ordering I was able to get polished diamond edge glass, 5 drilled holes with the correct bulkheads provided and the offset internal overflow for less than a comparable stock Oceanic on display.

 

This is one of those things where you cant really weigh the pros and cons of either way and decide. The reality is HOB overflows have absolutely no feature that is better than a built in overflow. The only reason to use a HOB is if your tank is already set up and cant be drilled or you dont know how to drill your tank or dont know anywhere to get your tank drilled.

 

I personally have run both styles. My 72g was an HOB overflow and I ensured that i included it in my maintenance and never had an issue (even after two days with no power). MY current set up is a built in overflow.

My honest opinion is i have more piece of mind with the built in than i did with the HOB. Although i never had a problem it was always in the back of my mind what if..... and i lose syphon. I no longer have that worry and I like that.

 

I use a HOB overflow out of necessity. I do maintain it regularly and check for air bubbles every day. It is a hassle to get the bubbles out. I would do a drilled tank over a HOB any day.