Using Overflow Return for CLS

[lkung]

Has anyone here (successfully) used the return hole in their overflow for a CLS? I'm setting up a new 75g (AGA RR) and was thinking of putting just a strainer on the 3/4" hole in my overflow and using it to feed a CLS. I'd put a durso on the 1" so the water level in the overflow would remain relatively consistent.

AGA rates their overflows at 600gph, but with this setup, there would a lot more volume moving through the overflow. Any problems with this?

Any other problems? Thoughts?

Thanks!
-leon.

[georgiajams]

I think I understand what you are doing. You may need to knock some teeth out of the overflow to handle more flow.

So, you will use the 1in for the drain. I assume you are going over the tank for the return? What about the output of the CLS?

[lkung]

So, you will use the 1in for the drain. I assume you are going over the tank for the return?

You got it. The 1" will drain to the sump and the return will go behind and over the tank.

What about the output of the CLS?

The output of the CLS will feed a 3/4" sea swirl (also behind and over the tank).

-leon.

[georgiajams]

OK, yeah. It will work, but without modification for the increased flow (e.g. knock out teeth) the overflow probably will not handle the extra flow. At least, on my Oceanic 75g, I have to restrict the flow from a Mag 12 which powers the return.

[lkung]

Originally Posted by georgiajams

At least, on my Oceanic 75g, I have to restrict the flow from a Mag 12 which powers the return.

Just stumbled across this post. Pic half-way down shows how one guy increased his overflow's capacity.

-leon.