How to Drill a Hole in an Acrylic Aquarium

If you want to install a filtration system on your aquarium but it lacks the required mounting holes, you'll need to drill them yourself. Drilling through acrylic, or any hard plastic, can be accomplished using the correct bit. Standard high-speed bits used for drilling metal or wood, should not be used as these can damage the acrylic. To drill a proper hole, use a bit designed for hard plastics.

Things You'll Need

  • Plastic cutting drill bit
  • Electric drill
  • Marker
  • Plywood scraps
  • Duct tape
  • Safety goggles
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Instructions

    • 1

      Insert the plastic cutting drill bit into the slot at the front of your electric drill. Select a bit that will provide a hole of the appropriate size. If you need to drill different sized holes, have a range of bits on hand. Ensure that the bit is locked firmly into place once inserted.

    • 2

      Determine where on your tank you will be mounting your filtration equipment. Make marks for all required holes using a marker. Draw the marks so that they are roughly the size of the hole to be made.

    • 3

      Place the scrap of thick plywood on the opposite side of the acrylic. Drilling into the plywood will reduce vibration in the acrylic and prevent melting. Use duct tape to anchor the wood in place, if necessary.

    • 4

      Don your safety goggles and turn on your drill. Align the bit with the hole's marker and make contact with the acrylic. Push the bit through the acrylic gradually, cradling the drill with care as it moves forward.

    • 5

      Release the drill's trigger and pull the bit back out through the hole. Allow the acrylic surrounding the hole to cool for several minutes.

    • 6

      Perform the above steps for each hole you need. If you need to switch bit sizes, allow them to cool for several minutes before swapping.