Corner Overflow for AGA 50gal?

[Joe_B]

Hi,
I have designed a piece of multi-use furniture that will house a AGA 50gal (36x18x18 +frame), T.V., Multi Media Equip., etc. My question is this; anyone ever install a DIY corner overflow? How did it go and what do you recommend? Ii've done many projects with both glass and plastic, so working with the materials not a problem.

Thanks for any input,
Joe

 

[AnotherGoldenTeapot]

I've done several in glass tanks.

Basically just glue a piece of glass diagonally in the corner. Then drill a hole in the side/back/or bottom (using a diamond core bit).

You can buy plastic grill for the top of the overflow, or use a piece of triangular glass mounted say 0.5 cm higher than the overflow (not glued on).

You might want to cut a diagonal piece out of the brace of the tank so you can get your hand (or at least something) into the overflow. This is not essential but it's not easy to get things out of an overflow (unless they float) unless you have vertical access to it.

I prefer to use pluming that is a little too big (40mm). That way you're not likely to have the return pump filling faster than the tank can drain. I glue the connection to the tank rather than use a bulk-head fitting - this is cheaper and does not restrict flow like a bulk head would - the ONLY downside is having to remove the glue every five years when the tank is moved.

I like to cut the hole about half way up the back so that in the event of catastropic failure there would still be water in the tank to keep my fish alive. The added advantage of this is that it keeps the noise from the waterfall under control.

It's probably a good idea to fill the tank to just below the top of the overflow and then leave it for 24 hours to check for leaks before you cut the hole in the tank.

5mm glass should be fine for the overflow.

 

[Joe_B]

Thanks for the reply. I think I might go with acrylic for the overflow. I like the idea of drilling the hole at the half way point.

Joe B.