Painting CPR HOB Refugium

TroyClark · Jan 26, 2022

Hello all,

I have an old CPR hang on back refugium that I would like to put back into action on my sump as a place to grow some cheato and provide a safe place for pods to multiply and grow. The only problem is that is totally clear and I don't want the grow light to spill into the actual sump so it doesn't grow algae where I don't want it. I would like to black out the back and sides of the CPR. What would you recommend that I use? I don't know what paint if any is inert and reef safe when dried or should I just try to go with a black vinyl of some sort. Any experience or opinions are welcome.

Thanks and have a great day.

Troy C.

Sean Clark · Jan 26, 2022

Black vinyl wrap is cheap and works great. Just need to ensure a good clean surface for proper adhesion.

Eagle_Steve · Jan 26, 2022

TroyClark said:
Hello all,

I have an old CPR hang on back refugium that I would like to put back into action on my sump as a place to grow some cheato and provide a safe place for pods to multiply and grow. The only problem is that is totally clear and I don't want the grow light to spill into the actual sump so it doesn't grow algae where I don't want it. I would like to black out the back and sides of the CPR. What would you recommend that I use? I don't know what paint if any is inert and reef safe when dried or should I just try to go with a black vinyl of some sort. Any experience or opinions are welcome.

Thanks and have a great day.

Troy C.

Years ago, I painted one I had with Krylon Fusion Flat Black Paint. Just some 600 grit sand paper to rough ti up, painted it, let it dry and all was well. Friend I gave it to is still using it and just recently touched it up with no issues. Just be sure to let it dry and cure for a few days.

On a side note, I have PVC painted black in my tanks with the same paint and no issues with it being directly in tank.