Which overflow looks better?

[cabenn]

Overflow #1

Overflow #2

It appears they both use the U-TUBE design so they shouldn't break syphon which is my #1 concern. I just don't have the time to build one and test it out with PVC and plus I don't like the looks of the PVC DIY overflows.

On Overflow2 I can't really tell where it is drilled but I assume it would be over where the foam pieces are and the stuff in the middle is just the parts.

 

[acidlittle]

#1 Looks good, but that is because it is on a tank and you can see just how it would look and probably work.

#2 Looks good and I beleive you are right with the holes being under the long foam pieces.

How each of them work is beyond me. I was looking at an overflow in a store which should remain nameless. And the guy wanted 240 bucks for it...INSANE

Just my opinions even though they are uneducated.

Josh

 

[cabenn]

Yah, I don't understand why someone charges insane ammounts of money for plastic. But I understand they need to make money and they supply the product and what not. But I think both of these are shipped from ebay and are roughly 60 bucks total. But it probably isn't as high of a quality as say the lifereef ones. But I could buy 3 of these and still break even. But then again with something that's so crucial to not failing should I even both with a few pennies here since if it fails it will undoubetely cost a lot more then spending the extra 120 bucks for a good quality overflow like the lifereefs

 

[waverz]

Just drill that sucker!! Scared?

 

[cabenn]

Drilling the tank is out of the question. There's no way I'm emptying all the water, taking the fishies out and taking a chance on possibly ruining a tank. I've had to do it once already and it wasn't my cup of tea. When I start to get ready for the move to the downstairs I'll think about drilling it but not anytime sooner

If U-Tube types of overflows never fail then I'm all for just plunking something on the top of my tank

 

[acidlittle]

just make sure the overflow has a good reputation of not losing it's siphon. I guess shelling out the extra money for the lifereef one would not be a bad idea. Better go with the one that makes you feel as comfortable as possible. WOuld hate to go on vacation and have to check in everyday wondering if the overflow is still doing it's job. I've heard nothing but good comments about lifereef. But i haven't heard ANY comments on the other two you posted. So I would be more likely to go with the lifereef!

My 2 pennies
Josh

 

[cabenn]

My only question is how do the laws of gravity stop the syphon? They appear to be almost exactly the same type of construction. All you need to do is start the U-Tube and even if the water inside the tank ever goes below the waterline there would still be water inside the U-Tubes since the gravity can't force it out.

Don't ya just hate being the first person to try out hardware and come to realize that after spending 60 bucks you end up with a POS and end up buying the more expensive thing anyways

 

[acidlittle]

Yeah that's why I'd go all out with the overflow.

Your point is very correct. I don't know how you would lose the syphon in that case. But it's very scary to me thinking about losing syphon period! LOL Let us know what you decide to do!

Josh

 

[Marcus8675]

I currently use an overflow very similiar to the ones you show in your pictures. The only difference is mine is a single foam outlet. I have never had a problem with suction. They do work. I can not beleive the price you are saying for these things. Granted I got mine a few years ago but I think it was like $30. Never had a single issue with it.