Which option would you choose?

[sheaD]

I have the opportunity to start with a blank canvas. The tank is an AGA 120 gallon 48" x 24" x 24" which I will be using for a mixed reef. The tank will be drilled for a closed loop so keep in mind there will be two 1.5" holes drilled on the back panel. This will also mainly be a front side viewable tank but you will be able to see through both sides as well. My questions are which overflow style would you choose.
A. Dual corner 1" overflows and run the return around back of the tank. Closed loop holes spaced equally on back panel.
B. Center overflow box with a single 1.5" drain with 3/4" run through overflow box. Closed loop holes spaced on either side of overflow box.
C. Center overflow box with dual 1" drains and run the 3/4" return through the overflow as well. Closed loop holes spaced on either side of overflow.

Any other recommendations are appreciated as I have only had experiences with corner overflows. The only thing that scares me with the single 1.5" overflow is what if it gets clogged somehow.

[Indymann99]

option C. and run a Herbie drain design.

my 0.02

[sheaD]

I am leaning towards C as well. I have never had a center overflow but really like the look of having the return run through and over the overflow box rather than running it behind the tank.

[sheaD]

Forgot to mention I will be running an Eheim 1262 for my return pump.

[IDrawFish]

my vote is option C as well

[sheaD]

Anyone have experience with these that could offer some pros and cons?

[Indymann99]

48x24x24 with center overflow and Herbie 1in primary drain w ball valve, 1 in emergency drain (unrestricted). 3/4 in return plumbing from a Mag 9.5. K4 Powerheads instead of closed loop.

http://s300.photobucket.com/albums/nn10/Indymann99/?action=view&current=SNC00194.mp4

hope this helps.

Oh and I have not had to adjust the ball valve on the drain (or supply) from original setup 2.5 yrs ago. The system stops and starts every 2 weeks with each waterchange (return pump shutdown and DT drains to weir level).

[sheaD]

Indymann, was your tank custom made? If so by who if you don't mind me asking.

[allsps40]

Here is what I would do. One center Calfo style overflow with 3 1.5 inch drains and 2 3/4 inch returns. For the closed loop I would have 2 2inch intakes in the bottom of the tank on opposite sides, you will need to hide them with LR and have a fish guard to keep out fish and other unwanted stuff. It protect the CL pump I would install an Ocean Clear canister filter. For the returns I would plumb them through a wave maker, 2 1 inch returns on the sides of the tank, this will make nice waves.

[Indymann99]

Yes my tank is acrylic and made by 10ec0r (manuf is blocked by this board, sound it out).

I am happy and would (have) recommended them to friends.