A custom fish tank, with correct overflow box placement by Aqua Creations

In the world of aquatics, custom fish tanks have emerged as a popular choice among enthusiasts. These tanks offer unparalleled flexibility in design and functionality. One critical aspect when designing your custom aquarium is the placement of the overflow box. In this guide, the aquarium experts at Aqua Creations will take you through the ins and outs of strategic overflow box placement in different tank styles.

Understanding Aquarium Overflow Boxes

Fish tank overflow boxes serve a vital role in maintaining the health and clarity of your tank’s water. They act as a barrier between your display and the drain pipes, reducing the drain noise level and the chance of your fish getting trapped in the pipe. The overflow aquarium box is for the regulating of the tank’s water level to hold steady at the top of the tank where it will then drain into the sump. This regulation of surface water prevents overflowing and increases filtration capacity.
Overflow boxes come in two main types: internal and external. Aquarium internal overflow boxes are placed inside the tank but can limit swimming space and are slightly more noticeable. External overflow boxes for aquariums maximize interior space, are totally out of sight, and provide easy access to plumbing. However, they require very careful planning and installation.

Overflow Box Placement in Different Tank Styles

The placement of the aquarium overflow box depends on the style you choose for your custom aquarium design:

  • Peninsula Style: Ideal for viewing from three sides, the overflow box should be at one end and can be built with internal or external overflows.  
  • Island Style: For tanks viewable from all sides, depending on the size of the aquarium, internal overflow with center placement ensures efficient water circulation without obstructing views.
  • Front View Style: For traditional front view tanks, rear corner or center back overflow box placements are an option as well as external side or center rear aquarium panel placement.
  • Front and Back View Style: In this case, side wall placement keeps the aquarium overflow out of sight from the primary viewing angles. Typically external is more pleasing, however, the space would need to allow for that.
External overflow box placement was the way to go for this aquarium, installed by Aqua Creations
Learn how to do overflow box placement right, like Aqua Creations did here
BEFORE: External overflow boxes before any millwork was done.
AFTER: Completely hidden behind the furniture with no obstruction inside the aquarium. For a more fluid and unobstructed view, external overflow is the way to go!

Overflow Box Placement Done Correctly

Custom freshwater and saltwater aquariums offer a unique opportunity to create a thriving aquatic environment tailored to your needs. The overflow box, while often overlooked, plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy and aesthetically pleasing aquarium. Understanding its purpose and optimal overflow box placement based on your tank style can significantly enhance your tank’s design and functionality.

Feel free to reach out to our experts to discuss the best placement options for your aquarium overflow boxes.

About the Author

Sol Bick

Sol Bick
Aqua Creations Founder

Aqua Creations founder and self-proclaimed fish addict, Sol Bick is passionate about anything aquatic. With over 50 years of experience as an aquarium hobbyist and professional, Sol never stops plunging into the depths of aquatic science, researching, contributing to, and staying current with the latest technologies.