[sbdyer]

Hey guys I just joined and I'm new to reefs. I have had a fish only before but now I would like to take on a reef tank. I found a sump design from one of the threads that looks perfect for what I would like to do. The link is
http://www.reefland.com/forum/attach...s-new-jpeg.jpg
I have a 55 that I would like to use as a display and I have a 30 long that I think would be perfect. What do you guys think? Also my 55 is not drilled. Should I definitely have it drilled and put in an overflow?

[SouthBayPhoto]

Looks like a pretty normal/standard sump design. I'm sure it would work fine.

As for the drilling of the 55....I'm sure others could comment better on this, so I think I'll pretty much leave it to them as they have more experience in this area than I do. I do know that you have to MAKE SURE the glass isn't tempered because as soon as you (or a glass company) drill into it and it's tempered, it'll shatter into a million pieces like a newer car window. Not a pretty site to see that happen.

Like I said, I'll let the others shoot out the "pros and cons" of drilling the tank for an overflow via a HOB (Hang On Back) overflow design.

[Ratpack]

Sump design looks good. As far as drilling the tank, it is somewhat of a personal choice. The biggest advantage of drilling vs a HOB overflow is that the HOB uses a syphon in order to work. If the power to the return pump is turned off, it is possible that the HOB unit could lose syphon. If it does, then when power is restored, the pump drains the sump and then runs dry. If there is enough water in the sump, it could overfill the display resulting in a flood. Bestt case, though, you just burn up the pump. Worse case is loss of pump, flooded floors and potential fire from pump. Now, not saying this is real common, but just a potential from a HOB overflow. Drilled overflows can also have issues if they get clogged. So it is really up to you which you prefer, but if you go with a HOB overflow, spend the money and get a reputable one.

[art_of_war]

It's always better to get the tank drilled (provided, it's not tempered glass of course). Looks less unsightly.

At the same time, HOB overflows aren't that bad. Yes, there are detriments but even with a drilled hole you have risks as well. If you drill the hole in glass yourself, you've got to exercise more than just care; more like caution.

As for HOB overflows, depending upon what type you have, you can get the ones with a syphon-starter airhose which is very critical for starting/restarting. By hooking up the airhose to a very weak/small maxijet powerhead with an upright inlet hole (sort of like a pitot-tube), you create sort of a precaution in case the power ever goes out. THAT is your failsafe and hydraulically speaking...it works.