Things You'll Need
- Pre-filter mesh screening
- Bulkhead filters
- Overflow box lid
Instructions
Raise the water level in the display tank to decrease the amount of air mixing with water in the overflow. A perfect siphon creates no sound, and raising the display tank's water level moves the siphon closer to this ideal state.
Install pre-filter mesh screening before the siphon tube. Slowing the cascade of water into the bottom of the siphon tube minimizes water agitation and helps form a better siphon, both of which reduce noise. Most overflow box manufacturers supply a fitted mesh screen for this purpose.
Install bulkhead filters in the overflow box's main compartment. These cylindrical sponges fit over the bulkhead fittings, slow down the water flow into the drain tubes, and raise the water level in the overflow box. These actions reduce sloshing and mixing sounds.
Attach a lid to the overflow box's main compartment. Most of the noise generated by an overflow box comes from this area, and placing a lid muffles much of the noise. Most manufacturers supply a lid for just this purpose. Tight-fitting lids, and thicker lids, seal in more sound than poorly- fitting lids. The lid may need occasional cleaning and rotating.