Bulkheads or overflows?

[wackydan]

Which do you prefer? My next tank is probably going to warrant a sump.

Is using bulkheads more or less noisy than overflows, or are they about the same?

I like the bulkheads as it seems that would be the better solution if the power went out but in looking at the overflows, it seems they are designed to keep their siphon if the power goes out as well.

I know that the pre-drilled tanks are also more expensive, and overflow boxes aren't too expensive and would work out a bit cheaper. It also would seem that the overflows would pre-filter any large particles. I'm also antsy about the bulkhead seals eventually leaking.... anyone have experience with that?

Anyway... anyone gone both routes and settled on favorite?

[Rallysman]

There is a little maintenance with a HOB overflow where there is none for a drilled overflow. I think drilled is much better. It's also easier to keep quiet IME.

[wackydan]

I knew you would be the first to respond. :P

[Rallysman]

I dont know if that's good or bad lol/

[StreetCypher]

If i could start again i would definitely drill. I hate my overflows

[wackydan]

Rally... Is it better to have the hole drilled in the bottom with a stand pipe? or better to just have the hole up on the top near the frame with just the bulkhead and strainer? I think in another post you mentioned the latter, and using an elbow on the inside to ensure the water came up to the trim off the tank.

[Rallysman]

Either way is fine, but I like the simplicity of a hole in the back of the tank with a bulkhead. It's really personal preference. I also think that it would be easier to fix a leak that way if you ever did get one lol.

[loaches r cool]

Some people dont want tubing and stuff going down the back of the tank, dont forget with HOB overflow or even bulkhead in the back of the tank that your plumbing will still be going down behind the tank. With an in-tank overflow all the plumbing is in the base so you can have a bare-back tank.

[Rallysman]

Some people dont want tubing and stuff going down the back of the tank, dont forget with HOB overflow or even bulkhead in the back of the tank that your plumbing will still be going down behind the tank. With an in-tank overflow all the plumbing is in the base so you can have a bare-back tank.

Very true. It really all is dependent of what you're trying to achieve.