Diy Overflow Build

jarvold · Oct 11, 2011

Has anyone ever done a dyi overflow box? I have been looking at cpr overflow boxes online and am pretty sure I could handle making one myself.

I watched a video on youtube showing how to make a plexiglass bender out of a hair dryer heat coil. And well, naturally I had to try and see if i could make my own plexiglass bender... And it worked...

So now I guess here is my question. I have the ability to make one and I have dimensions for the size gph I need to have. Is there any reason why I shouldn't try to use a homemade one on my tank (if i can trust the craftsmanship).

And... If anyone has done this before, do u have any tips?
Thanks!!!

Chad · Oct 12, 2011

If you can trust your craftsmanship there is no reason not to. The design of the PF-300 and other similar models from eshopps is also an easy one to copy and a solid design.

Fat Tony · Oct 12, 2011

I would avoid the CPR versions and go with a standard U-Tube style overflow. The CPR style boxes are notorious for losing siphon and the u-tube style are less prone to this.

Chad · Oct 12, 2011

That's why I mentioned the pf- models from eshopps. Simplicity and reliability of design. Mine never lost siphon once.

bdial438 · Oct 12, 2011

What about a PVC overflow. I love mine. And it's easy to adjust the water level too.

Nate_Bro · Oct 12, 2011

+1 to Tony and Chad, use the U-Tube style

I copied the eshops "square" and it not only was impossible to clean, but I always worried it would loose siphon while I was out, and it came close to it a few times.

also the PVC overflows can work well if done right

jarvold · Oct 13, 2011

I have not looked into pvc overflow designs at all. Is there any where I should begin looking. or a successful design that any of you know of off hand.

I have a 30 gal display and am looking to run it into either a 20 or a 30 gal sump. looking at between 200 and 300 gph only for flow through my sump. I have a Reef Octopus OCT-EXT160 skimmer that I will attempt to match gph with in the sump.

Also if anyone wants to help me design a sump I would love the help. As I have never set up or ran one before. I could probably post a design that I am thinking about so far.

jarvold · Oct 13, 2011

I think I may have been confused about the pump on my skimmer. It is a PSK-2500 (60Hz, 40w 6A) I researched it and every one of these that I am finding is listed as a 25-26w pump not like mine listed 40w. Is mine just an older pump maybe?

Anyway I guess what I have found to be the flow for this skimmer is 660 GPH. I have a Mag 5 return pump for in the skimmer which I believe is a 500 GPH pump. At a 3' head height i'm guessing it will put out 350 GPH or so (does this seem right?). Should I be getting a bigger return pump or is this sufficient for overall sump flow with my skimmer?

I really appreciate any help you guys can give!!! Thank You!!!

jarvold · Nov 14, 2011

Geoff · Nov 21, 2011

not saying i have been around TRT for a while, but here is a DIY i did ahem, a few years ago.

G~

lilserb953 · Nov 21, 2011

Ive made my own overflow box.

Diy Overflow Build

Top Contributors this Month

Recommended Communities