Setting up Tank Via Holes Drilled in Bottom of Tank?

[jeffnyc]

Hello!

I am researching setting up my first planted aquarium and want to hide all mechanicals behind slate in the back of the tank.

I want my proposed 25 gallon cube created with two holes in the bottom for a:
• CO2 system
• Internal Filter

Then, (using the best, longest lasting tubing possible) I would seal the holes with silicone. The stand would have corresponding holes.

Any thoughts or suggestions on the feasibility of this plan? Suggestions would be greatly appreciated as I haven't had a tank since I was a kid.

Thank you!
Jeff

[MonkeyPox]

Is your tank glass or acrylic?
Do you have any experience drilling glass?

I would not recommend the bottom for a variety of reasons. If you insist on drilling, do so on the back side of the tank.

If I've misunderstood and you don't have the tank yet, consider getting a "reef ready" tank that will already have the side drilled. You could then use one side to run your lines and wouldn't have to seal it.

Something like this ([Only Registered Users Can See Links.]) for example

[jeffnyc]

This would be glass and the manufacturer would be drilling. So, I could have holes drilled on the side, lower. Just thought the bottom would be more discreet.

[MonkeyPox]

You can't just drill a hole in the glass, add CO2 tubing and then silicone and call it a day. The pressure just wouldn't withstand it and it would certainly crush the CO2 line.
If you can't cordon off the hole, a la an overflow, then you really need to add a piece of PVC and run the CO2 tubing in through that. You'd have to have it exit near the top of the tank, which would almost defeat the purpose.

If you can black a segment off like an overflow, you would still want to add a bulkhead and pvc to rub the tubing through.

[jeffnyc]

Really, just 25 gallons and the tubes couldn't withstand that pressure? Hmmm, maybe drilling in the back of the tank up a bit higher might be a better solution?

[MonkeyPox]

Pressure is exerted equally at a given depth, so you could drill higher to lower the pressure, but in an open water environment, I really wouldn't recommend what you're suggesting.
You really need some overflow device to eliminate the water and pressure from the area that you're bringing up your tubing.

[jeffnyc]

I'll look into it. Thanks!!!!!