External overflow boxes give you the ability to add a sump or added filtration to your aquarium without the complication of drilling your existing aquarium. On many occasions, we have set up tanks and then a few months after deciding to add a sump. With an established tank, drilling, and plumbing the aquarium isn't an option. All HOB overflow boxes work off a siphon principal, pulling water out of your aquarium, over the edge and the directed into a bulkhead that is included with the OM5000.
Noise is a large concern for all types of overflows and the OM5000 uses dual durso style wedge pipe that allows you to tune the drain flow by just turning the wedge pipe until the noise stops. We do not recommend using DC return pumps with overflow boxes since they have variable flow, and once the overflow box is tuned the return pumps flow rate should not be increased.
Note - We highly recommend using an Aqua Lifter pump to prime the overflow box continuously. The Aqua Lifter pumps are a cheap insurance policy against siphon restriction through the overflow box.
Specifications: Max Flow - 1320 GPH Max Tank Thickness - 2" Dimensions - 9.25" L x 9" W x 11" H Water Intake External Dimensions - 9.25" L x 1.5" W x 6" H (height is variable for leveling) Minimum Clearance Required Behind Aquarium - 6" Plumbing Connection - 1 1/4" Soft Tubing (we recommend braided vinyl tubing)