DIY Overflow build and a few questions

[smartlove_518]

hi everyone,

I just finished building my first overflow as my tank is not drilled. It took me about an hour to build that and it was fun. now i am putting up the pics so please let me know if this will work or not. its made out of 1" pvc. now my question is that i couldn't find a check valve to put on top of the pipe. i searched at many shops but none of them have it. i live in dubai so I think its not available out here. so what can i do to ensure that it primes and starts automatically after a shut down.

2) I am also building a sump that will have 3 compartments. can i please know what to put into each compartment which will give me best bio and mechanical filtration.

thanks.

 

[ruddybop]

Wal-Mart has them in their pet section. At least in the U.S.A. they do, you could check there if you have one..... And your Overflow looks good.....

 

[ruddybop]

To test your overflow try this guys meathod... Thats how I tested mine... He runs it then unplugs it like Electricity out.. Then plugs the pump back in to test restart.....


[YT]oKadMXBPfl0[/YT]

 

[ruddybop]

PetZone is a new family run business that is rapidly establishing itself as the number one pet store in Dubai. PetZone was set up during 2001, and opened for business at the beginning of 2002. Word quickly spread and our reputation is still growing, based on our total commitment to provide excellent service in a knowledgeable, friendly atmosphere.

 

[smartlove_518]

ok thank you guys..i went to another pet store this morning and was able to get a check valve..now i will test it and will let you guys know....thank you for all your help guys...that pet zone is pretty far..its like 1 half hours from home..

 

[KaiserSousay]

I would strongly suggest you try out your overflow before hooking it up to your tank.
You can test it outdoors, or any other place where a bit of water on the floor will not harm anything.
Any container that holds water and has sufficient depth for your overflow and another to hold your pump.
Set it up to match how your tank and sump will be.
Start your siphon and pump.
You will get a real time idea of how this will work or not.
Remove power to the pump and see how your overflow stops flow.
Power up the pump and see if your overflow will restart.
Do this a few times.
Seems like a bit of extra work, but if there is a problem, wouldn`t you rather deal with it where a mess is no big deal?
Good luck

BTW: Shameless advertising.....Hmmmmmmmm

 

[smartlove_518]

I would strongly suggest you try out your overflow before hooking it up to your tank.
You can test it outdoors, or any other place where a bit of water on the floor will not harm anything.
Any container that holds water and has sufficient depth for your overflow and another to hold your pump.
Set it up to match how your tank and sump will be.
Start your siphon and pump.
You will get a real time idea of how this will work or not.
Remove power to the pump and see how your overflow stops flow.
Power up the pump and see if your overflow will restart.
Do this a few times.
Seems like a bit of extra work, but if there is a problem, wouldn`t you rather deal with it where a mess is no big deal?
Good luck

BTW: Shameless advertising.....Hmmmmmmmm

thanx for the help.. yes i will surely test the overflow before i hook it up to the tank..i am still waiting to purchase the pump..i am thinking of a pump which gives about 600 to 700gph since my pvc is 1"..as soon as i get the pump which might be today i will hook it up and test my overflow. its extra work i know but its better than an overflowing tank.