I argree, its probably not a big deal. But I think things like deep sand beds, they have to circulation, and you shouldent disturb them. I can just invision all the crud that comes down my overflow settling in the bottom of that tube, sitting there for months, and one day accidently knocking over the thing or some fluke with the pump suddenly putting all that back into the water stream. Maybe I'm just overthinking it. But it cost a dollar for the plugs to not have to think about it.
My biggest concern is how much potiential is there of the slot getting plugged enough, or restricting enough flow that the overflow cant keep up? I'm thinking maybe put my return pump in like a tupperware in the sump, so that if the water gets to low, the pump runs dry before the tank overflows. Not good on the pump. but better on the wood floors!
