return line prefernece

i will be going over the top on mine.but mine is peninsula style so no room to go though the side with the overflow.what overflow did you go with if i may ask?

 

With the canopy you could go over the top and install some sea swirls to give different flow. Just a thought.

 

They sit on top of the tank or mount them where you like asks they move back and forth.
Index - Marine Depot

 

That's the only down fall and everything with this hobby lol if or when I do another tank they will be on it.

 

I agree if I was going to have a canopy and plumb return that way I would do 2 or 3 sea swirls. Should be able to eliminate some powerheads using these.

 

My return line goes over the top, and of course my 3 drains are drilled. It's been a year and in hindsight I haven't minded having the return over the top, it's black on my black background so I don't notice it at all. If I ever do another tank I will drill the return line in, it's just less messy that way.

 

Just remember, the return lines become drains when the pump is turned off. Best to go over the sides and use the return to break surface tension.
If you drill through you have to accommodate the flange width on the bulkhead and clearance to the canopy or rim if your tank has one. Also want to leave a couple inches from the edge of glass from the hole.

Not saying don't do it, just consider the easy button if there is no effect to aesthetics.