Hello reefers , I just did a custom lid for my tank after unfortunate even of my clown jumping out, though I can give you guys an idea.
I chose plexiglass as it’s cheap ( with Covid blowing over you can probably get it for free from someone who used it as Covid shield) or else like I did buy it for around 5€.
1.
step one is to mark the size of the tank:
To do so I just placed it on the tank and marked the size.
2.
Mark the holes and light cutaway:
I did a grid 1cm each.l to guide me when drilling ventilation holes later on. keep in mind I didn’t peel the plastic off yet so that get cleaner cuts.
3.
On table saw Using guide I cut the shape and using plunge cuts cut of the hole for the light fixture. I used table saw since I own one, but regular hand saw and a bit of elbow grease will do just fine
4.
drilled the ventilation holes and 2 finger holes on front edges. For now I settled on 6 holes, later on might drill more. I’m trying to find a best balance between lowering evaporation and leaving space for heat to escape.
5.
Sanded it down and it was ready to be tested:
6.
peel and test fit! The light hole is slightly bigger since I’m waiting for new light to arrive
here are some of the final product images:
Anyway this is just a quick guide but feel free to ask questions. Great Sunday afternoon project that will save money compared to out of the box options and be a great custom fit
cheers
I chose plexiglass as it’s cheap ( with Covid blowing over you can probably get it for free from someone who used it as Covid shield) or else like I did buy it for around 5€.
1.
step one is to mark the size of the tank:
To do so I just placed it on the tank and marked the size.
2.
Mark the holes and light cutaway:
I did a grid 1cm each.l to guide me when drilling ventilation holes later on. keep in mind I didn’t peel the plastic off yet so that get cleaner cuts.
3.
On table saw Using guide I cut the shape and using plunge cuts cut of the hole for the light fixture. I used table saw since I own one, but regular hand saw and a bit of elbow grease will do just fine
4.
drilled the ventilation holes and 2 finger holes on front edges. For now I settled on 6 holes, later on might drill more. I’m trying to find a best balance between lowering evaporation and leaving space for heat to escape.
5.
Sanded it down and it was ready to be tested:
6.
peel and test fit! The light hole is slightly bigger since I’m waiting for new light to arrive
here are some of the final product images:
Anyway this is just a quick guide but feel free to ask questions. Great Sunday afternoon project that will save money compared to out of the box options and be a great custom fit
cheers