Drilling A Already running tank?

Would it every be safe to try and drill an already established and running aquarium? I have a 30g tall that i wish i could have drilled before setting it up, but it wasnt an option at the time. Could you ever just lower the water level and drill holes for bulkheads>?

My guess is that this is a dumb idea, i was just curious if anyone else has done this before or if its possible.
Thanks in advance!

 

I wouldn't advise it. Drilling glass makes one heck of a mess

 

Gilbert' I've often thought of attempting to dill my sump for to add another bulk head for options.
And honestly i am to affraid to give it a try' considering it's in use and could make a huge mess/problem should the tank crack/break .

You've got "brass" if you try and succeed at it.
As for me NO WAY lol , not right now while it's in use and unable to be moved or turned over if needed.

 

I have heard of it being done, but there is no way I would try it. I would be afraid that when you break the surface tension of the glass plate combined with the pressure of the water pushing against the glass it would be a recipe for DISASTER!

Relocate the fish and corals into a bucket or two, drain almost all water out of tank, drill an refill. As long as you are quick about it you should be fine. use a bowel and plumbers putty on inside to catch any chips and the cut out.

 

To simply drill a few bulkheads at the top water line is a waste of time anyways you have to add a overflow box inside the tank to allow the very top few inches of water to be totally skimmed off for the skimmer to clean up.. Thats another reason no HOB skimmer really works well they pull water from to deep in the tank. Unless so sort of surface skimmer box is jack legged on to the skimmers feed pump.

 

I lowered my water level when I had my nano drilled... I used damp washclothes to catch the shavings... Didn't have any problems....

 

I agree with wildreef, you got a good pair screwed on tight if you do it. Unless you transfer everything to a holding tank and procede from there. Luna

 

Can be done - there's a video on Youtube showing it being done. Lower the water level & you're all set. I'll post it if I can find it again.

Here's the link: YouTube - Drilling a tank with lifestock in it

 

Finally someone agrees with me!!! LOL!!!! I had no problem at all........

 

I didn't say it couldn't be done I just said to do it right you have to drain tank. Like tangster said drilling it at the top isn't worth it. And to drill any lower you going to have to drain the tank.