easy on the drinkin it is like noon lol. but reef people run closed loop systems all the time just google it.
What would I use to seal them? And if I did seal them would I be able to unseal them later on?
easy on the drinkin it is like noon lol. but reef people run closed loop systems all the time just google it.
Threaded PVC End Cap and Teflon Tape.
And yes.
I wanted to do the same thing when I bought my 144 half circle tank. I had the same issues you did: it was my first drilled tank and I knew nothing about sumps. I wanted to hook up my FX5's because I was familiar with them and how they worked.
Someone recommended that if I was so dead set on running canisters, it would be easier to simply cut out the overflows (it's just silicon keeping them in there) and to them silicone a flat piece of glass over the holes drilled in the bottom of the tank. No leaks, and substrate would cover the unsightly patch job.
In the end, I did my homework and went the sump route. It was scary the first time I filled the tank and fired up my 2000gph pump, but it's worth it. Getting all the right pieces can be a bit annoying, but I'm running my whole system with soft plumbing: 1" ID hosing.
The thing I like most about the sump is that it gets all the wiring out of my tank, so it's just fish and aquascaping. I've got 2 heaters, a UV filter, and a sponge filter ALL in my sump!
Before you cut out the overflows and seal the holes, do a bit more research on sumps. There are guys on here who can definitely help you out, and I'd be glad to chime in with my rookie experience, as I understand the frustrations you may encounter.
Good luck either way!
- John
$200??? You should show us a picture of the sump he's selling you.
How big is the sump?
And how big is your tank?
https://www.google.com/search?q=wet+dry+sump&sourceid=ie7&rls=com.microsoft:en-us:IE-Address&ie=&oe=
Edit: I meant to post this link