Beginner Build - Plenty of advice needed!

[Fluke]

Hi guys!

I've long wanted to get into the hobby; and decided that now is the right time in my life to jump in. I've spent the last 6 months furiously researching (although the more I tend to read - the more confused I get!) That is when I found this place, and am really hoping some of you kind folk may help me along my journey!

I'm planning on building my set-up slowly. I'm in no rush, and want to try to ensure I'm buying the best equipment that my budget will allow; I'm not envisaging having this set-up running for at least 6 months to a year. Planning to add to the set up more and more with each pay check!

Where am I currently? I've purchased a 360L (80G) tank as my main display tank, and a smaller 120L (27G) tank, which I'm planning on making into a custom sump. I contemplated buying a 'plug and play' tank, but really did like the idea of making this a full journey - and trying to design and build as much on my own as possible.

So; here's my first newbie question! Bulkhead holes. Firstly, what size holes should I be drilling for drain and return lines? I've read two 1" drain holes; and one 3/4" return hole - but does this vary depending on tank size? And secondly; and specific rules to follow on placement on these holes? I'm a bit nervous of drilling through my tank only to then realise that the hole placement is wrong. ;Facepalm;Facepalm

Look forward to getting to know some of you; cant wait to get stuck into this hobby! Todays task is building a stand - wish me luck!

Cheers,
Fluke ;Clown

 

[JumboShrimp]

Many (most?) overflows you will buy will come with a template, showing you where to drill. You can check with the manufacturer. Just pay attention as to whether the tank is Eurobraced, as it may slightly affect where you should drill; so read the installation instructions carefully when it comes to water-line, etc. Any way you slice it, you are far more brave than I am if you are drilling a tank! Best wishes.

 

[Fluke]

The issue I have is it seems impossible to purchase an overflow kit here in the UK; my options are order from the US and pay a lot in postage and import tax, or make my own custom one.

I think I'm going down the custom route. I've just ordered the glass I need to silicon an overflow box together - still trying to psyche myself with regards to the hole drilling. ;Nailbiting

Any advice on the plumbing sizes for drains and return pipes? 1" drains feel very small for the size of the tank And is there any advice against having the same size drain and return plumbing? Saves me having to buy two different size hole cutters *Shrug*

 

[Fluke]

The display tank - Water / leak tested in the garden before I bothered to clean it. All was good. Given it a nice clean and it's now made its way indoors.

Tank that I will use as a sump. I have a rough idea of what I want to fit into it; but as I'm sure you'll all be aware, plans in this hobby seem to change almost daily!

Todays project - the stand. Frame built this morning; ready to be panelled now.

 

[JumboShrimp]

I’ll just share what is working for me:

150 gallon tank. Overflow has a 24” weir. I have three 3/4” drains (two main plus one emergency), and I run the two mains pretty much fill open, with a trickle down the emergency as well. The 3/4” return pipe coming off the pump in the sump splits into two 1/2” returns. (There would be no problem making them 3/4” each if you only wanted to buy one-size whole cutter.