#WelcometoR2R! There are a lot of different ways to go, but you may want to take a look at the BRS YT video on best lighting value. The ReefBreeders took the top spot and that is what is used by many garage-based coral farmers that I am familiar with. Good luck with whatever you choose!
First, welcome to Reef2Reef....you are going to like it here.
Just submerge the whole thing....no worries! Mine are horizontal at the bottom of my sump.
#WelcometoR2R
#WelcometoR2R and thank you for taking on this stewardship project! Does the system current has lights or a powerhead? I so, can you find a brand and a model number? Also, what can you tell us about the return pump (brand and model number) that pushes the water from the sump back up to the...
#WelcometoR2R!!! I have replaced the top rim (sometimes called frames) on a few tanks over the years. While I have done it successfully, I'm not sure that I would recommend it to others from a risk management perspective. Do you have a picture or some info on the two-part replacement piece...
#WelcometoR2R!!! Air appears to be getting in the line at some point. You may want to try disassembling and reassembling the piping from the return pump to the discharge and make sure that all connections are made well. Good luck!
#WelcometoR2R! The lidless tank may result in jumping fish, but the smell would likely come from the sump (especially the skimmer) rather than the tank itself. IMO both the waterbox and the red sea tanks would be solid choices. Good luck with whatever you choose!
#WelcometoR2R!!! Usually the Aqueon tanks are not tempered on the back, but I would still use the polarized sunglasses test before drilling to make sure. Commodity tanks have been known to use whatever glass is available in a pinch and you don't want to be surprised. Good luck!
#WelcometoR2R!!! I'm assuming that you have checked for obstructions and the pump is fully functional. Are you able to prime the pump? One thing that I have tried in the past is to connect another pump temporarily to the end of the in-flow hose (even holding it in place) and see if that will...
#WelcometoR2R!!! Many faucets will have an aerator that unscrews and can be temporarily replaced with an adapter like this one from an online retailer:
This will adapt the faucet to a garden hose style thread (there are different threads and styles that connect to your faucet so pick...