Filtration

[han]

Using a canisterfilter combined to a (very) low tankwater level becomes far more easy when filter
inlet/outlet come through the bottomscreem.
I made two 10mm. holes (glassdrill), filterinlet/tankoutlet in front, filteroutlet/tankinlet in back of the tank; tubing with doublevalves under the tank to canisterfilter:
-very easy (starting of) waterflow, tankinlet tube just above waterlevel;
-better filtration;
-better waterflowcontrol (by using valves);
-no tubes in tank, except for a short underwater
tankinlet tube in the back;
-no tubes through tanklid, newtproof;
-easy waterchanges; just disconnect the double
tankoutlet valve and let the water run out.

 

[jennifer]

That's a very good idea. Unfortunately, most people do not have access to a glass-cutting drill to make the round holes in the tank.

I have one tank with a canister filter and screen lid. I made large holes in the screen lid to fit the tubing. The lid is hinged, so the tubing is not disturbed when opening. It's not as neat as your solution, but it was a lot easier, and still quite newt-proof.

 

[han]

Jenn,

Glassdrills are for sale at ironwarestores. I paid some $4 for a 10mm. Choose the spearpoint-type. Fits in any machine but use one with adjustable speed. It'll take some 3 or 4 minutes
(low speed, light pressure) to drill a perfect round hole through the 6mm. glass-screen, covered with a some water to cool the spot.
Han.

 

[aaron]

I must point out that many tanks-esp. larger ones are made from tempered glass, which will crack if you attempt to drill it. Usually just the bottom is tempered, but I would stil consult the manufacturer to be safe.

~Aaron

 

[han]

True of course, but it doesn't make any sense using tempered glass, just makes a tank more expensive. I've always built my own tanks during the past 25 years and never had any problem in using regular 6mm. bottomglass, cheap and easy to drill.

Han

 

[melinda]

You've got to try Tetra's ReptoFilter. It's about 20 bucks, the price of a regular filter, but it's made to work in as little as 2 inches of water. It also makes for an easy waterfall, which helps increase some much needed humidity (I live in the desert)Also, since it sits inside the tank, there is no worry for notorious newt escapees. It's a life saver, I hope this helps someone.