Drilling aquarium

I am going to drill my 125. I plan on drilling in the middle of the tank and near the bottom on the back side. I believe the bottom of the tank is tempered. Is there any reason I can not drill near the bottom of the tank on the side? I have a full bottom to top overflow is why I want to drill the bottom. I then will use a stand pipe of sorts. Thanks

 

Unless the tank is older than 4 years old and is an Oceanic, the back won't be tempered so you would be safe to do it like that.

 

This gadget makes cutting holes easy and clean. I wish I had it when I did my first tank.
Glass Hole Drill Guide - English

 

lol, you know what's awesome, that in the first picture it's set up on a full aquarium like he's getting ready to drill it. lol. I know they are only trying to show how it sets up, it's just funny they are doing it on a full tank.

 

Ya drilling on a full tank keeps the drill cool lol pretty funny.

Sent from my SPH-M900 using Tapatalk

 

Other option for a drilling jig is a simple piece of 2x4. Cut the hole, clamp the wood to the glass, and off you go. The 'template' will keep the drill from wondering around on you.

 

That is what I did when I ordered my kit from Glass Holes . com.

Drilling a tank is easier then you expect just use a fair amount of water to keep the drilling and the bit cool and smooth

 

Agreed. Also, let the bit do the work. Don't force it. The weight of the drill itself is plenty of pressure. I was able to drill 2 holes in my 5.5gal refugium tank without it shattering. The glass is very thin, and I had no problems.

 

Just make sure it's not all tempered. One inexpensive trick is to grab plumbers puddy and roll a piece & make a circle that is larger than the bit and attach it to the pane of glass to form a round dam. Now fill the circle with water. It will keep the bit cool while cutting. Also to start drilling without it walking on you hold the drill at a 45 degree angle to start the cut, then slowly straighten the drill while cutting.

Good Luck!