Aquarium Overflow

An aquarium overflow box serves the purpose of draining water from your display aquarium into your aquarium sump or filtration system. It typically comprises a weir and drainpipes designed to efficiently redirect water out of your tank and into the sump. The installation of overflow boxes can be undertaken either by the aquarium manufacturer or as an aftermarket addition by the end user.

Overflow boxes come in two main types: internal and external. An internal overflow box is situated inside the aquarium, often built by the tank manufacturer. However, these internal boxes can be large and bulky, occupying valuable space within the aquarium. In response to this, there has been a shift towards external overflow systems, which are located outside the aquarium. This design choice allows for more space within the aquarium, promoting a cleaner and less obstructed aesthetic.

An excellent example of an external, low-profile overflow system is our Shadow® Overflow, which not only effectively drains water but also minimizes the impact on the overall appearance of your aquarium.

There are multiple styles of overflows and we HIGHLY recommend the Shadow® Overflow