Overflow Boxes

[agent6473]

I know drilling is the best option. But what is the best design for an overflow box? What things should I look for? I know U-tube is the way to go, but what about other design elements? Is the box on the following link a good design?

http://www.aquacrylics.com/new_acrylic_overflow_box_and_ski.htm

 

[ScottM]

GPH. its all about the flow.

How much you pan to have will decide what size overflow you need.
I have flooded a few apts with the wrong pump/overflow combo

on an aquarium with a larger surface area and a larger pump you could get a larger flow rate, and with a smaller surface area and smaller pump you will get a smaller flow rate.

for the High GPH check out CPR. ebay used to have them for a good price

 

[skatezen]

It looks like your standard Utube overflow. I hated my utube and bought a CPR much thinner and less of an eyesore.

If you want a used CPR PM me. Great little overflow, just need a pump or powerhead. Much better than a Utube IMO.

 

[agent6473]

I've read that the CPRs aren't as reliable as the u-tubes as far as keeping siphon. Is that true? I probably don't need that much flow. Here's what I'm planning:

I have a 30 gal cube tank with softies and LPS only. Building an acrylic sump/fuge for under the tank.

What would you recommend for an overflow box/pump combination?

 

[skatezen]

The utubes can also pull air in and slow over time if aren't checked regularly. At least with the CPRs air is always extracted as long as the pump is on and hose is clean. I had great success with the aqualifter.

 

[ScottM]

I'd suggest a CPR and an aqualifter with a prefilter.... or better yet, drill it.

 

[ScottM]

http://www.marinedepot.com/aquarium_overflow_boxes_cpr.asp?ast=&key=

 

[agent6473]

Sounds good. Thanks for your advice

 

[nitrofish]

I just got a nice one off of ebay, 1200 gph with 2 of the u-tubes.really good quality, I can hardly see the seams.