Overflow

N2theUnknown · Nov 22, 2020

Hey guys has anyone made a simple pvc HOB style overflow? I'm looking to add a sump but not wanting to foot the +$100 on a HOB overflow box. So I was thinking a strainer and a few 1" 90s but what would be the best design for this? Maybe some added security to keep the syphone from breaking.

laverda · Nov 23, 2020

Consider drilling your tank, if at all possible. Much more reliable.

N2theUnknown · Nov 23, 2020

Yea that's not really an option at this point in time. I actually found some pretty good videos on youtube of ones that would seem to be reliable. I'm just going to mod them alittle.

R.Weller · Nov 23, 2020

We ran one for about 1 year before upgrading to a drilled tank. A variety of things will cause the siphon to break...all of which are caused by air finding it's way into the pipe. We even tried to improve reliability using an Aqua Lifter pump to keep air out of the top of the siphon but one large bubble is all it takes. We used it on a 60gal non-drill & added a custom 20gal sump. It's worth trying to get the added benefit of a sump, but I would also keep an eye out for a more permanent solution.

You'll want to keep at least 1 heater in the display to avoid the loss of life support when the siphon fails.

N2theUnknown · Nov 23, 2020

Yea the one I found I don't see any physical way the siphon would break and yes I agree with his is by no means a permanent solution. But I don't want to tear down my tank to drill it and I don't want to buy another and drill it. So this is what my options are and I'm willing to take the risk as I do have a floor drain about 4 feet away so if it did fail it's not a horrible issue. But that's part of this hobby all depends on where you want to spend your money and for me it's not on a $150 acrylic box lol

TroyClark · Dec 1, 2020

Add one of these to act as a fail safe. It senses if the water in tank gets too high and then shuts off the return pump. Piece of mind vs. an overflowed tank.

Amazon product

N2theUnknown · Dec 1, 2020

TroyClark said:
Add one of these to act as a fail safe. It senses if the water in tank gets too high and then shuts off the return pump. Piece of mind vs. an overflowed tank.

Amazon product