Overflow Question

fishytime · #1 02-17-2011, 04:06 AM

I take it drilling the tank is not an option?

axe_man16 · #2 02-17-2011, 04:13 AM

I would not get a CPR type overflow. They are dependant on a pump to keep them working. Although not 100% foolproof a u-tube overflow design is much better. I have never had a problem with mine.

Maverick00 · #3 02-17-2011, 04:13 AM

that was actually the original plan, however it was a used tank and im unsure what kind of glass im working with. I havent a clue how to 'test' whether or not the back is tempered or able to be drilled. Another problem is i dont have a temp tank i could move everything to in order to drill, i assumed drilling with livestock in the tank would be.. well not recommended to say the least. Looking at the prices of the higher gph cpr overflows im wondering if upgrade time for the tank with panes im able to drill might be the cheaper and better way to go in the long run...

axe_man16 · #4 02-17-2011, 04:17 AM

To test if your tank is tempered, you will need polarized sunglasses, and a source of light. A laptop or better yet the sun. When you put the glasses on and tilt your head the pane shows stress marks nd gets darker (if tempered).

Maverick00 · #5 02-17-2011, 04:21 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by axe_man16

To test if your tank is tempered, you will need polarized sunglasses, and a source of light. A laptop or better yet the sun. When you put the glasses on and tilt your head the pane shows stress marks nd gets darker (if tempered).

ill give that a shot tomorrow!

reefwars · #6 02-17-2011, 04:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Maverick00

that was actually the original plan, however it was a used tank and im unsure what kind of glass im working with. I havent a clue how to 'test' whether or not the back is tempered or able to be drilled. Another problem is i dont have a temp tank i could move everything to in order to drill, i assumed drilling with livestock in the tank would be.. well not recommended to say the least. Looking at the prices of the higher gph cpr overflows im wondering if upgrade time for the tank with panes im able to drill might be the cheaper and better way to go in the long run...

if you have a tank thats already running and your already planning an upgrade then i would save that money you would use on an overflow and put it towards your upgrade......buy only what you need and can use for a long time

a temporary tank while you drill can easily be just a large bin hasnt got to be pretty just large enough and safe enough for your livestock.......hang a little sign sayng construction in progress lol but i would just save for your upgrade

cheers

axe_man16 · #7 02-17-2011, 04:26 AM

I would would have to agree with reefwars. If you are eventually going to upgrade, save the money and get a reef ready tank. People sell them on here all the time.

Maverick00 · #8 02-17-2011, 04:33 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by reefwars

if you have a tank thats already running and your already planning an upgrade then i would save that money you would use on an overflow and put it towards your upgrade......buy only what you need and can use for a long time

a temporary tank while you drill can easily be just a large bin hasnt got to be pretty just large enough and safe enough for your livestock.......hang a little sign sayng construction in progress lol but i would just save for your upgrade

cheers

Hahaha yeah thats a good point, I have a couple 20gal Rubbermaid tubs ive never used in the garage i suppose thatd do it. Ill have to sleep on it, a drilled tank being next to 'foolproof' does sounds alittle more attractive.

Thanks for the comments everyone.

The Grizz · #9 02-17-2011, 04:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Maverick00

Hahaha yeah thats a good point, I have a couple 20gal Rubbermaid tubs ive never used in the garage i suppose thatd do it. Ill have to sleep on it, a drilled tank being next to 'foolproof' does sounds alittle more attractive.

Thanks for the comments everyone.

That would work, just make sure that you have everything figured out and pre-built especially if you have to silicone in an overflow. Keep your tubs heated, lit & skimmed and you will be good for a few days any way.

If it drillable, that would be your best way to go.

gobytron · #10 02-17-2011, 01:58 PM

Overflow box advocate here...lol
People who tell you having a drilled tank is better or safer just havent used an overflow box before or did not understand how to properly set them up.

I have a drilled 50 gallon and a 95 gallon with a u-tube DIY overflow and neither has ever flooded or caused a problem.

IME, you don't want a CPR overflow though, the ones that use the aqualifter to start siphon again are nowhere near as fool proof as those that dont require restarting at all...

like this one.