CPR Overflow - Drill-free suggestions for my 44g cube?

[andsoitgoes]

Hi all,

I'm in prep to add an above tank refugium, but I'm heming and hawing about what I really want to do here. It makes more sense for my setup to have a sump, but I do not want to drill my main tank. It's just too much headache and risk if I could get an overflow (used, of course) for a reasonable price.

What experience does everyone have with the HOB type, and what might I be looking at cost? Obviously keeping it a reasonable amount is important, but I do want something to make this convenient and optimal for my setup.

Thanks in advance!

[Joe Reefer]

I have been using a CPR overflow for almost 3 yrs now, in all that time I have never had it fail. You do have to maintain the hose and pump that keep air from building up in the siphon though. I probably replace my hose every couple months and clean the powerhead twice a year.

[andsoitgoes]

wow - that's actually pretty darn impressive. And it means I don't have to drill a tank. hmm.

What would be a size to look for with my 44g cube? I know someone selling a CS50 for a fairly cheap price, but of course they're not local. Can't justify buying new, but would again much rather have it an under tank solution - not an over tank

[fkshiu]

Might want to consider a U-tube overflow - nothing mechanical like a powerhead to fail.

Lifereef is considered the best (and most expensive), but I managed to pick up a used one at a reasonable cost.

There are many other types out there with the same basic design like Hurricane and even Marineland has a model.

[andsoitgoes]

Ouch - just checked their prices, they're NOT cheap...

want to sell yours?

It's either that or I beg the Anthony man to help me drill my 1/3rd empty cube tank - I'm sure nothing bad would happen, nothing bad at all could happen, right?

=/

[Chaloupa]

I had the Lifereef style with the U-tube on it....was quite good. I didn't have to worry about restarting or anything and starting was super easy. I did however have a powerhead with a hose always in the tube (a small bit of tubing from the top "nipple" for lack of a better word with tubing going from the powerhead, to the inside of the U tube took out any air immediately and started the siphon very fast....and it ran really well. I had no complaints but now all my tanks are drilled as it is just plain easier!