Things NOT to DIY

DIY heater/controller? That could get a bit hairy. I suppose not too bad... but WHY!?!?

I wouldnt DIY acrylic sheet or pipe... just not worth it.

You could DIY an actual pump from the ground up if you knew enough about motor/pump dynamics and had the right equipment... not that difficult really... possibly dangerous if you dont watch out, but not too difficult... the hardest part would be finding the right magnet. Everything else could be machined/coated/thermalformed, etc. I am actually considering this since I cant seem to find many companies in the US that will make a 36v DC submersable 5000rpm motor for a 2000lph needlewheel pump. I did find a chinese pump that looks promising now that I have it in my hands... actually pretty well made as well... just have to finish the custom volute for it.

I wouldnt DIY a light bulb... thats dangerous!

I wouldnt DIY saltwater either...lol... thats the best.
 
thrillreefer, that's hilarious!

I certainly agree that most other things can be done yourself depending on your particular expertise. I'd say there are some things that the "average" person probably shouldn't do, unless they're just doing it for the experience. I think chillers were mentioned. I'd say protein skimmer as well if you want really good quality, but I'm sure plenty would disagree with me there. A DIY controller generally requires about a 50 lb brain. DIY LED lighting has been brought up many times, but that's definitely one I wouldn't try. I definitely don't see anything wrong with trying most things, even if you fail. Just do some research, ask questions, and decide for yourself whether or not you feel up to the challenge.
 
As long as provisions for accidents, overflows, GFCI tripping, emergency refabrication/repairs to keep the system up and running and you and any person(s) that would be around your reef frankenstien support system creations were taken into account pretty much anything is DYI. Also taking into consideration your abilities vs your ability to roll with the success and failure of your various creations would be the only concerns with DIY.

Besides, for example build a 5 foot PVC venturi skimmer that actually works and can handle a couple hundred gallon system for under $70 excluding pump and you'll be the envy of the guy who paid $450 for theirs and does just as well. Unless you have to have it look like $450 masterpeice. It moves food and fish waste out of your water column...how damn pretty does it need to be?

The DYI condom comment was stellar btw.
 
Defibrillators
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plastic surgery

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Not sure if anyone said this yet:

Don't DIY drill an overflow unless you're experienced in drilling glass and/or you're sure your tank isn't tempered.

And don't DIY my purple heat egg rolls. DO DIY respect my egg rolls. I just made a batch tonight.
 
If you have access to an oven that can temper glass you very well may already know how to do it. No bare hands!

We all just need to remember that if we can DIY anything that even comes close to being as good, let alone surpass the big brand name's in form, function, or cost, to post a detailed instructional build thread with lots of pictures. YOU can be the envy of us all... at least until the next best DIY comes along.
 
HaHa... Good link veurli. I dont think that would work out for me, sometimes on long drives I like crack the window open to smoke...
 
<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11353051#post11353051 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by logiktest
HaHa... Good link veurli. I dont think that would work out for me, sometimes on long drives I like crack the window open to smoke...

Also known as a surge device ?LOL
 
Ouch. would not want to be the first or second pic... however my hand did look close to that last summer... right in my palm. Hurts worse pulling It out than it does getting it in.
 
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