Explain coast to coast overflows to me

[Miami Reef]

Hello, I’m starting a new build soon, can someone explain how coast to coast overflows work? 250 gallon tank.

 

[Arego]

They just span the distance left to right of the tank. Can be internal or external. They function no different than any other typical overflow box, just bigger.

 

[Miami Reef]

They just span the distance left to right of the tank. Can be internal or external. They function no different than any other typical overflow box, just bigger.

I currently have a standard (internal?) overflow box. My tank is 27” high, and the overflow is very narrow and low. It’s basically impossible to clean if the bulkhead gets clogged.

I do want access to clean my overflow boxes with this new tank.

For a 250 gallon tank, would an internal or external coast to coast be best?

 

[dedragon]

20″ Synergy Reef Overflow

The 20″ Synergy Reef Overflow™ is our only hand built overflow that will work with tanks over 3/4″ in thickness. Tanks from 3/4″ up to 1-5/16″ in thickness max. The 20&#8243…

synergyreef.com

probably something like this, external with removeable weir that you can clean if/when it gets dirty

 

[JoshH]

As mentioned above, only real difference is the size of the Wier. In theory the larger wier increases the overflows surface skimming ability which can increase oxygenation (Not a huge benefit in the grand scheme of things) and the removal of organics off the surface of the tank water.

 

[dedragon]

Fiji Cube Low Profile External Overflow Box 1600GPH

The external overflow box is a popular overflow option for hobbyist to build their tanks into the next level. Fiji Cube’s external overflow box features a slim and safe design that offer another solution to perform your tank build. Features: Slim and compact design to suit any aquarium set-ups...

www.fijicube.com

or this where the entire overflow can just be pulled off during maintainence

 

[JoshH]

I currently have a standard (internal?) overflow box. My tank is 27” high, and the overflow is very narrow and low. It’s basically impossible to clean if the bulkhead gets clogged.

I do want access to clean my overflow boxes with this new tank.

For a 250 gallon tank, would an internal or external coast to coast be best?

For ease of cleaning an external overflow is usually better depending on how long your tank is and where the overflow is placed

 

[airedwin]

Where does the return go?