DIY BIIIG Overhead Filter. 2400PGH W/Dual Intakes

[Drstrangelove]

Sure, I could see some situations where having the sump above the tank would be preferable. The most difficult issue would probably be getting the weight up there (above the tank, or above and behind the tank.) Getting the hydraulics right would be the next issue but I can't see how that is a show stopper.

Don't see why not. In some circumstances it might be a much nicer arrangement.

 

[DB junkie]

I just want to try something different thats all!

Sounds like a perfect time to try out a moving bed filter!!!

Not trying to be a negative nancy, prick, or arrogant, but that design is dated, and a proven nitrate factory. Even with a submerged pump (can't have pumps in line unless they are below the water surface unless they have a priming pot)

I used scrubbies for years, and can happily yet honestly say I won't ever use them again. There's no way to get the crud out of them that WILL end up in them after the mechanical plugs. That's where I was going with the mechanical plugging, not an overflow scenario, but rather contaminated bio....

 

[DB junkie]

Not to mention that a pump fed filter is a bad idea from the get go. Nobody is going to convince me that it's easier to remove crap from the water column after I just used a pump impeller to mince, blast, slurry and liquefy it.

I much prefer the radial flow separator style of removing the poo before it even hits ANY media.......

 

[Drstrangelove]

Not that much out there, but I did find some related stuff.

http://www.yourepeat.com/watch/?v=YFcioRUCa6c


http://www.aquaristsonline.com/blog...t-are-the-benefits-of-an-above-tank-refugium/


http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/f...3-Overhead-filters&highlight=overhead+filters

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/f...ead-Wet-Dry-Filter&highlight=overhead+filters

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/f...-Above-Tank-Filter&highlight=overhead+filters

 

[dogofwar]

I use a similar "dump" filter design on my big tanks (because they're not drilled). It's a simple, efficient, effective and easy-to-clean design. Been using them for years.

Best thing to do is to put the pump(s) in the tank and plumb them to spray water into the rubbermaid or whatever container (I use clear rubbermaids) that you're using (on top of the tank).

I use 2x4s to support the filter (on top of the tank).

Like a sump, you can use a filter sock or fluff or sponges or whatever on top for mechanical filtration. I have a plastic tray of fluff and then a piece of Poret foam on top of a bunch of bio balls, scrubbies, etc. in mine. Stack a couple of pieces of egg crate (light diffuser) on the bottom of the rubbermaid to ensure that it doesn't get plugged by a bio ball or whatever.

The water returns to the tank via gravity...so make sure to drill SEVERAL good-sized holes in the bottom of the rubbermaid to ensure that the filter can drain adequately. If in doubt add another hole.

Matt

 

[shelbybmc]

My main goal is defiantly remove visible waste. My 1 1/2 PVC DIY overflow isnt cutting it really. Even with plenty of powerheads blowin it around. My fish poop to much and only eat once a day. Bare bottom tank with no decor doesnt help either. DB got pics of your filtration setup? Thanks DR Ive watched that video more than once haha.

 

[shelbybmc]

I use a similar "dump" filter design on my big tanks (because they're not drilled). It's a simple, efficient, effective and easy-to-clean design. Been using them for years.

Best thing to do is to put the pump(s) in the tank and plumb them to spray water into the rubbermaid or whatever container (I use clear rubbermaids) that you're using (on top of the tank).

I use 2x4s to support the filter (on top of the tank).

Like a sump, you can use a filter sock or fluff or sponges or whatever on top for mechanical filtration. I have a plastic tray of fluff and then a piece of Poret foam on top of a bunch of bio balls, scrubbies, etc. in mine. Stack a couple of pieces of egg crate (light diffuser) on the bottom of the rubbermaid to ensure that it doesn't get plugged by a bio ball or whatever.

The water returns to the tank via gravity...so make sure to drill SEVERAL good-sized holes in the bottom of the rubbermaid to ensure that the filter can drain adequately. If in doubt add another hole.

Matt

I basically want to do this. I just dont want the pump in the tank. I feel as making a couple "decent" looking intakes will be more pleasing to the eye.

 

[dogofwar]

I don't but the gravity return of 2,400 gph will be stir up the tank!

The other main advantage of a dump filter is that it's more efficient: you lose less pump "head" than if you're pumping all the way from a sump below the tank.

I don't trust PVC overflows in sump applications. Drilled tanks are much better...

Matt

 

[dogofwar]

I think not having the pump in the tank will complicate things but try it out. It's DIY!

 

[shelbybmc]

I don't but the gravity return of 2,400 gph will be stir up the tank!

The other main advantage of a dump filter is that it's more efficient: you lose less pump "head" than if you're pumping all the way from a sump below the tank.

I don't trust PVC overflows in sump applications. Drilled tanks are much better...

Matt

Yeah def not drilling. Thats why I want to do this. With flower pots up there I think I can really make it look nice ya know. Any suggestions on a nice self priming pump thats not gonna be too over kill? All I ever find is pool pumps.