Teresa Posted April 9, 2012 Share Posted April 9, 2012 Hey everyone, I'm close to biting the bullet and buying a $30-50 overflow box when this idea hit me. Do you think it would be possible to turn a HOB filter into an overflow box? I've got a ton of different HOBs just hanging out in my garage (granted, many have already been ransacked for various parts). I figure if I remove the pump, then I just need to figure out how to retrofit some tubing to the bottom. Anyone done this, know how I might approach this or have suggestions? I'm trying to keep costs down to $0 if possible with parts I've already got. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ClarkiiCircus Posted April 9, 2012 Share Posted April 9, 2012 Everything I have read says it is a horrendous idea. It is nearly impossible to match drain/return rates over an extended period of time. The idea of an "overflow" is actually that only the return pump is dictating water movement. However, without the impeller is a different story... starting at 1:45 or so, this guy apparently did it and it is working (again, I don't know for how LONG: and in aquarium experience, when it rains it pours. You may literally come home to a huge wet floor depending on the size of your refugium...) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VX3MUFTkT0U In my personal opinion for the headache it is going to cause you to find all the correct PVC, fittings, glues/sealants, designing a "screen" to ensure water only flows one way, possible insane flooding, it is worth it just to buy a $30 overflow that you KNOW is going to work. But to each his own. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
+o0zarkawater Posted April 9, 2012 Share Posted April 9, 2012 I'm not sure that is something I would try to rig. Seems like a risky place to cut corners. You might give the LFS a call to see if any of them have any used ones for cheap. Or post in WTB. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
(Bio)³ Posted April 9, 2012 Share Posted April 9, 2012 Your looking for Hang on back over flow and not just a box for a drilled tank right? I have 2 over flow boxes for drilled tanks that I plan to list when I get around to it, going for $25 each. Originally they were $50 each. ever been used or siliconed on. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Teresa Posted April 9, 2012 Author Share Posted April 9, 2012 Your looking for Hang on back over flow and not just a box for a drilled tank right? I have 2 over flow boxes for drilled tanks that I plan to list when I get around to it, going for $25 each. Originally they were $50 each. ever been used or siliconed on. I'm looking for an overflow for non-drilled tanks so I don't have to drill into my tank. Do you have any pictures? 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
(Bio)³ Posted April 9, 2012 Share Posted April 9, 2012 Sorry my overflow won't work for you then, this is for a drilled tank. Have you checked eshopps and such? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JasonJones Posted April 9, 2012 Share Posted April 9, 2012 I think it is certainly possible, but the risk to reward ratio cautions against it. I would buy a purpose built HOB overflow. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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