Plumbing Question

BigH55

I'm that guy
I have to plumb my frag tank and an looking for ideas in plumbing it. Instead of using an overflow could I just drill a hole for the drain and a hole for the return line? I would drill these into the back of the tank and how big would you make them?
 
First, don't drill a hole for the return. Not only is it unnecessary since you can just run the returns up and over the back, using loc-line to direct the flow, BUT when the power goes out, and your pump stops, it's going to back siphon until the end of the return line hits air... So going over the back instead of through it will allow you to drill a small hole in your loc-line (just below the surface of the water) to release the siphon when power goes out. It's also less bulkheads to have to buy, or worry about leaking IMO.

I have no idea why people on here are using overflows? A hole drilled in the back of your tank, with an elbow and a strainer is not only less obtrusive, but far easier and less to worry about. and it's CHEAPER. IMO overflows should only be used when you had a tank up and running, and not drilled, before you realized you should have drilled it but it was too late. (but that's just one kid's opinion)

1" drain, 3/4" return line from your pump.

If your frag tank is glass, then please enjoy these educational videos on tank drilling by the president of the Kansas City Reef Association :P

http://www.monkeysee.com/play/8779
http://www.monkeysee.com/play/8785
http://www.monkeysee.com/play/8786
 
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Thanks for the input. I drilled the tank last night and everything went really smooth. Im going to plumb it today and hopefully get everything up and running by tonight. Ill post a pic when I get it done.
 
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