Canreef Aquatics Bulletin Board - My overflow failed today :(

Canreef Aquatics Bulletin Board (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/index.php)

- Reef (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/forumdisplay.php?f=8)

- - My overflow failed today :( (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=77584)

Not sure what size of display tank you have but after adding up all the parts needed, you probably should look at the cost of a new tank with overflow built in. My guess is it wouldnt be much more for a new custom tank... few hundred more?

Quote:

Originally Posted by Son Of Skyline (Post 628782)

Thanks for the responses guys. It's a Lifereef utube overflow and has worked flawlessly for 2 years. I think something plugged the utube for awhile and then moved on, although I don't have any evidence. I have one hermit which is big enough to plug it and it can climb the glass. I do have an ato and it did activate but luckily it shuts down automatically after about 10min so some damage was contained there. A high water float switch in my display may work but it may be an eyesore IMO if I can't hide it. Can a controller like an apex or something control a floor water sensor to cut off my return instead of just sending an audible alarm? Is there a cheaper or easier way?

LOL...
That's the cadillac of external overflows...
I would bet money it was an animal that clogged your utube...
Thats why I run dual tubes...lol.

This same type ofmalfunction could occur in any overflow, external or otherwise without the proper failsafes.

Quote:

Originally Posted by gobytron (Post 628791)

Nope, it could Never be the Lifereef's fault!

Here we go again...

LOL indeed.

Quote:

Originally Posted by GMGQ (Post 628810)

Nope, it could Never be the Lifereef's fault!

Here we go again...

LOL indeed.

Alright...
on a siphon (not pump) based overflow, how d you explain a temporary or partial loss of siphon then a return to full siphon as described by the OP?

what do you have against lifereef I wonder?

Quote:

Originally Posted by Coleus (Post 628786)

an apex + io break out box + http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BKQ75G will cut off your return pump

Thanks. This could be the perfect excuse to buy an apex!

I don't blame the overflow because it did return to full flow on it's own so there was no break in the siphon. Right now I'm blaming my biggest hermit and Im thinking of trading all my big hermits in for little ones.

The tank is 70 gal and it would be nice to get a new drilled tank but it would be a pita to switch over.

I came home today to what potentially could have been the same situation as yours. When I looked over at the tank,I spotted my Anem in my sump. He must have decided to go for a walk/float while I was at work. Made it through the external overflow and into the sump without spilling a drop. :razz: must have been a nice ride.