bulk heads and over flows

[Biomatic]

i am planning a 30 gallon reef aquarium 24x12x24 should i just use a bulk head or use a over flow

 

[M1A1]

Yes

 

[EighthNotch]

i am planning a 30 gallon reef aquarium 24x12x24 should i just use a bulk head or use a over flow

I'm assuming you're asking if you should use a bulkhead with a strainer vs a bulkhead with an overflow box siliconed to the tank.

Either will work however if you're using a smaller sized sump, less excess water will drain into your sump during a power-outage scenario (or when you shut your pump off) if you use an overflow box. Also an overflow box might help keep critters out of your plumbing. I suggest looking into 'bean animals' or 'herbie' style overflows. Drilling two bulkheads, one for full siphon with gate valve to tune it, and one for emergency should work. Maybe someone else can chime in here.