Where to drill?

[arkman]

I'm setting up an internal overflow system running into a sump below my tank. What are the pros/cons of drilling the outflow through the back of the tank, or the floor (yes, it is an acrylic thanks)
Thanks!

 

[sal t. nutz]

If you drill through the back, you can drill high and not need standpipes to make it quiet. You actually wouldn't even need an overflow box at all then, the water can flow right into the pipes. On the other hand, drilling the bottom, although it requires standpipes to make it silent, all the plumbing is invisable, as it all runs straight down into the cabinet. No hoses, pipes, or even electrical cords (if you drill a dry chamber also) will be seen. Even though drilling the back of the tank near the top is easier and more practical, I would always drill the bottom, since it is a much cleaner design.

 

[arkman]

Good point on the blockage Golfish -- I was in the plumbing asile of Home Depot (is the black PVC ok for tanks?) and saw some good ideas for protecting the drain on the outflow. Never thought about drilling high on the back and not using the standpipe (?)...