Overflow options

[Harpo]

I need some advice on overflows for my new tank. In the past all of my tanks have been internal overflows. My new tank will have an external overflow but which one. I was originally planning on either a shadow or an EZhopps but I keep hearing about leaks or cracks. How reliable are the notched exterior glass overflow?

Thanks

David

 

[Rick's Reviews]

Following

 

[YOYOYOReefer]

im big fan of coast to coast overflows. whatever you go with make sure its big enough as you can use less than it can handle but you cant easily upgrade its capability if its too small no matter what.

 

[Harpo]

I'm considering Glass cages. According to their website a shadow overflow will cost me $40 + the cost of the shodow overflow box ($300?) and the notched exterior is $710 just to put things in perspective

 

[Tlledsmar]

I'm drilling the bottom next time around.

 

[Harpo]

Yea, that seems like the simplest and cheapest option if you have the space.

 

[Blue Spot Octopus]

Yea, that seems like the simplest and cheapest option if you have the space.

Yes unfortunately maybe on the floor as well, but it depends on how you go about it, it is no different than and internal overflow but the standpipe needs to be protected.l

How big is your tank? What is your budget?

 

[Harpo]

The footprint is 48x24 depth is still tbd. I would like to be 16 or 18 deep which means a custom tank and that looks like it is in the $2000 range.

 

[YOYOYOReefer]

The footprint is 48x24 depth is still tbd. I would like to be 16 or 18 deep which means a custom tank and that looks like it is in the $2000 range.

wow i would get an acrylic tank made for half of that... seems pretty pricy to me....

 

[Blue Spot Octopus]

Maybe the tank builder can put the external overflow on it for you. That way he drills the tank and lines it up.

 

[DCR]

I would either go with Exotic Marine or Modular Marine over the Shadow or Eshopps. Depending on whether you want slots (EM) or teeth (MM) for the internal box. I have a 24" and 36" Exotic Marine on separate tanks. I do have to get fish out of the boxes occasionally, but they skim real well and are quiet. I prefer them to an internal box.

Edit: Fiji Cube also makes a good overflow I believe

 

[Harpo]

Modular marine looks good

 

[Dolphis]

I would either go with Exotic Marine or Modular Marine over the Shadow or Eshopps. Depending on whether you want slots (EM) or teeth (MM) for the internal box. I have a 24" and 36" Exotic Marine on separate tanks. I do have to get fish out of the boxes occasionally, but they skim real well and are quiet. I prefer them to an internal box.

Edit: Fiji Cube also makes a good overflow I believe

I use a Fiji Cube overflow and while it works and is quiet using a bean animal configuration, I wouldn’t purchase it again. The thing warps easily, and while it hasn’t leaked, it is a concern in the long run.
Also, one of the bulkheads that connects the internal weir box to the external flow box, would leak.
And the external flow box is surprisingly cramped/small - had to get adapters to fit the pipes inside the box.

I also have their 40G breeder sump kit with similar warping and ill-fitting issues.
Like I said, it works, but not worth the price - there’s better out there for sure