Prefer to make your own filtration system or just buy?

[FINWIN]

I'm too chicken to try anything like drilling holes in tanks!

 

[celebrist]

Acrylic was cake as long as you take your time

 

[FINWIN]

So you seal those pipes with silicone to prevent leaking?

 

[celebrist]

Cement, only seal outside of the sump and tank in case you need to remove for maintenance or repair

 

[MrsE88]

I prefer diy whenever possible. I like having a complete understanding of how everything works. And what better way then to be the one who built it!
All my pond filters have been made by my husband and I. My sump is my only tank filter I like. I hate hob filters and am too chicken and cheap to go the canister route. Lol

 

[duanes]

Drilling glass is really very simple, I waited a long time before I tried it, and now wish I'd not waited so long.
After drilling one, I almost immediately drilled 7 more. The larger the tank, with thick glass are the easiest, only the small thin glass tanks are a challenge.

Since I like my overflows near the top, I have even drilled them half full with fish inside.

And using a proper bulkhead with a well made gasket, prevents leakage so no need for extra sealers, of silicone.

 

[FINWIN]

Has anyone tried drilling a hole near the bottom for drainage? Or does the higher pressure increase the risk of a leaky seal?