HOB overflow leak

[dragonxflare]

I recently purchased the Eshopps PF-300 overflow box for my 48 gallon tank, and when I was installing it, I noticed a small leak around the bulk head.

 

 

After some tinkering, I was able to get the leak to stop by reducing the flow of my return pump. After I woke up this morning, I noticed a small amount of salt creep around the bulk head.

 

I assume this means, at some point while I was sleeping, the unit leaked a bit.. and dried up. Is this something to worry about? Should I be trying to fix this? Any specific reason why it might be leaking?

 

Thanks

 

 

[ManGups]

Use Teflon pluming tape ..

[dragonxflare]

Use Teflon pluming tape ..

I read a lot about bulk head leaks, and almost all of them say to avoid teflon tape, silicon, etc etc.

[ajmckay]

Depends on where it's leaking... If you have another pipe/fitting threaded into the bottom of the bulkhead then yes Teflon tape. Otherwise I would also check the seals and make sure they're free of any and all dirt, dust, hair, etc because that could cause a tiny leak. I like to put a thin thin layer of silicone grease on my bulkhead seals because it keeps them supple for longer and the grease helps seal as well. Just be careful if you use grease not to over tighten because the grease will make it really easy to tighten.

[ajmckay]

I read a lot about bulk head leaks, and almost all of them say to avoid teflon tape, silicon, etc etc.

 

I think it depends on the situation... Note that when you post something like this try to give a reason why or at least a link.

 

Normally PVC/ABS tightens against itself, however, you have to tighten it down pretty good for it to seal under pressure. Teflon tape lets the threads move with reduced friction so you can get the union tighter without cracking the glass/acrylic in-between (due to the force of wrenching on it).

 

Silicone grease does the same thing plus as I mentioned keeps the rubber more supple. For example tightening a bulkhead on a painted surface is a pretty surefire way to have a tiny drip but silicone helps fill the minute undulations in the paint until the rubber can conform to the surface - depending on the elasticity of the rubber itself anyways.

[outerorbiter]

I have cracked the male threaded part by over tightening. Just a chance

[ajmckay]

Yeah a crack is definitely possible on these things.

 

On a side note when I first replied I was at work and they block pictures. Now at home I see your pictures and noticed that the seal is on the wrong side (it doesn't look like there's a ring seal on the inside of the overflow box).

 

Put the seal onto the bulkhead and then put it through the overflow hole and tighten it down. I'm thinking a lot of overflows have 2 seal rings, but if there's just one it should be on the inside.

 

Good luck.