Is there an advantage to built in overflows vs overflow boxes?

[michael]

I do know that when they are built in it makes for a cleaner design but does it "work" better that way or does the same filter attached to an overflow box work just as good? Curious because i run an overflow box and am wondering if I am at a disadvantage performance wise?

 

[jsodwi]

I can tell you that I just bought an overflow box rated at 1200gph and it is not even flowing close to that. I hear that they lose performance because of the siphon tubes transfering the water

 

[rkc772]

depends... cosmetic wise i would go built in overflow box. i'm having my 180 gal having a built in one. less hoses at the back and less likely to have future problems since i only need to deal with the bulkhead seals which would almost last a lifetime unless you let it dry and stay dry long enough to have the seal crack and deteriorate. and the return pipes would go behind the built in overflow box it would look neat and nice. just imagine... no hassle on hose at the back of the tank and less likely to have leaks... in my opinion.

 

[Oddball]

I find that both types work just fine. Hang-ons are good if you're not sure of the type of glass used to construct the tank. Internal O/Fs would allow for the use of a full canopy. And, large fish wouldn't be at risk of knocking the O/F loose.