Drill holes or get hang on overflow?

[worm64]

Hey guys I have a 75 gallon tank that I want to make a saltwater tank. However their is no overflow or any holes to put an external overflow. Should I consider drilling holes (my luck it will shatter) or get a hang-on overflow which I have yet to hear good things about

 

[lavoisier]

Holes are more efficient and will save you maintenance time. Get a good drill bit, watch a couple of videos, and practice on a spare sheet of glass.

 

[piranhaman00]

Hang on overflow get a bad rep because they used to be bad. Get a Life Reef overflow box, I have two running for over a year without issue and I do not worry about them at all.

I also have drilled tanks, drilled tanks are much better haha But I understand the not wanting to drill, everyone says its easy but I found it stressful.

 

[Charles2465]

If you do drill it make sure it's not tempered glass as I have been told will shatter to pieces if you drill into it.


Here is a link on how to identify tempered glass

 

[nathanieltyler]

If you choose a good hang-on overflow, it shouldn't be a problem, but to be safe, I'd recommend drilling. if you've worked with glass bfore, it should be fairly simple.

 

[piranhaman00]

God he made it so easy, it took me 8 hrs to dril 3 holes and I vowed to never do it again lol

 

[Screwgunner]

If there is a sticker on the bottom of your tank that said do not drill i would go with overflow. Had to replace the glass in my 65 tall ,not a good day.

 

[blasterman]

I've had good luck with HOB over flows. Even built them myself. Their Achilles heel is the siphon required from your tank to the over flow. If it fills full of air you are screwed unless you have an over flow shut off float or have your return pump raised so that it sucks air before totally emptying your sump on your carpet.

The reality is your transfer siphon isn't going to just fill with air. As long as the flow is strong enough air bubbles won't accumulate.

 

[monkeyCmonkeyDo]

Drill it
D