offminded

Do they make 55 gallon tanks with built in overflow boxes? Or do I need to by a HOB overflow box? This may seem stupid, but is this the first step where water flows down into a sump? Am I at least on the right track?

agsansoo

Yes they do. They're called RR (reef ready) aquariums. And yes, this is how the water leaves your tank on the way down to your sump. Overflow box --> sump --> return pump

offminded

Thanks for the clarification. I assume that reef ready tanks are quite a bit more expensive than tanks that are not? Having an overflow box is more aesthetically pleasing than having all sorts of HOB equipment, right? If I cannot find a RR tank...can I purchase a HOB overflow box such as the CPR Continuous Siphon Overflow Box? Will this provide the same function as a built in overflow box? The make one that is designed for up to a 60 g. tank...would that be sufficient or would I need to buy 2 boxes? This would be for a 50 or 55 g. FOWLR tank.

agsansoo

I have a HOB overflow box ... It's rated for 600gph. That would be a good size for your 55 gallon tank too. Remember 5x-8x ( 275-440gph ) flow through you sump is what you want.

offminded

Does it look clean? I mean...I just don't want a mess of tubes hanging off of the back of my tank. I want to hide as much as possible. So realistacally I could have the overflow box hanging on my tank and all of my other gadgets and gizmos (protein skimmer, canister filter, etc) would be hidden underneath in my sump...right?

agsansoo

I will take pictures tonight, and do a little write up on sumps/fuges and overflow boxes.

offminded

I really appreciate it...thanks!!