Sump/Refugia Questions?

I have a 55G AGA system with three HOB filters and macro that just floats around in the tank with the livestock.  I am going to add a sump/refugia under the tank this weekend.  I bought a submersible Rio 10HF (Hyper Flow) pump for this.  I do not have an overflow, and don't have a real understanding of how overflows work.   Do I need an overflow?, If so, can I make one myself? How?
Will someone please explain?  I plan on doing this with PVC fittings and some 3/4" flexible tubing.  I'm looking for some advice on how to go about doing this with the one pump that I have.  I have not seen how others do this, so I'm making a go at it as is.

Thanks in advance!

Alex

 

This has been discussed here plenty. I suggest a search to read and view diagrams posted previously.

A simple hose/tube over the back of the tank leading to the sump/refugium will siphon water out of the tank and flood the floor unless specific measures and equipment are utilized to prevent it. Also during and after power outages, the overflow system must be designed to allow limited water to drop into the sump during a power outage and for the system to restart without having lost the syphon when the power is restored.

In addition to what you find in your search, I have a write up explanation and design of a simple overflow if you would like to email me and request it. To email click here:[email protected]

I have a overflow box. It came off my 55. I got it on ebay for $40 with shipping. It can handle up to 800gph. That would be turning your tank over 16 times Hr. Thats with 3 u tubes. I used 3 but I was only pumping 600gph. Rio hyperflow 12.

I would sell the overflowbox for $25

Kamaron 808-1591

I never had a problem flooding.

Bryguy514 wrote: What about using a check valve to stop siphoning when power goes out?

No good. Don't even try it. It will get clogged and fail.

Have you asked for my article? Do you need to discuss? My number is below.

I have an overflow box (CPR) and it is rated to flow 1400 gph. I've never put it to the test, but I'm hoping to very soon.
Anyway, I suggest that if anyone has the chance to drill their tank in lieu of using an overflow box they should do it. There is just a much larger chance that the overflow will fail. And it will fail while you're on vacation - that's just when these things happen. Its some type of universal law or something. Mine failed while we were in Yellowstone a year or two ago.