Urgent: advice needed on leaking overflow chamber

[ckpeh]

Hi people,

Need advice urgently. I’ve bought over a 2nd hand tank from my friend and during the transportation, the piping in the overflow chamber may be damage (two piping, inflow from sump and outflow to sump).

The problem is that when water flow out of the tank to the sump, some amount of the water will leak from the outflow piping joint outside of the tank into the sump, wetting the stand. When I checked the joint, I saw the rubber ring used to hold the PVC piping (internal chamber and external tank to sump) is not holding proper. I ‘m having problem to set the rubber ring in place to hold the PVC pipe to seal the hole cut in the overflow chamber to prevent water from slipping out. can i seal the leak at the joint? There are three kind materials PVC pipe, glass, rubber ring. I need all the advice to seal the leak. Should I seal the internally (inside the chamber) or externally (outside the tank)?

Thanks.

[Tanzy]

I don't what exactly is the problem without seeing it, but the rubber ring may have harden and not giving a good seal.

You will need to drain the tank, dry the overflow area and silicone the joints properly. You can do without the rubber washer because they will harden quickly in seawater. Apply silicone liberally. Let dry for at least 24hours.

[ckpeh]

Hi Tanzy,

Thanks for your prompt reply. Will the silicone hold with the PVC joint? Is this the same type of silicone for sealing the glass tanks? I am dying to see my tank work. Many many thanks.

Rgds,

CK

[Achilles Tang]

If you really want a permanent seal. You can get those 2 part epoxy and seal up. It will harden like cement.

[ckpeh]

Tks for the advice, but will the chemicals from these epoxy (inside the overflow chamber) harm the fishs?

[Morgan]

AT is suggesting that you use the type of epoxy that is used for bonding coral frags to LR. It is reef safe.

I would use silicone, easier to apply and if it is not properly done, can still rework.

[dodo]

May attempt to seal off some PVC pipe in another tank

Can someone tell me more about the 2 part epoxy?Apa ini? Where Can I get it?

Many thanks

[Achilles Tang]

Hardware DIY shop

[ckpeh]

Hi,

there are many brands. I got mine from neighbourhood hardare stores. Or u can go to Hardware store at Tampines Mall or Greatr world City.

I've tried 2 brands and one of them really dry up easily. Too fast to even work on my repairs.