Question about plumbing a return line

[BigRedHair92]

Hey all. I finally bought a new house, which means that I'll soon be able to set up my new 180 gallon tank. I've got everything laid out except for my return line. I'm having a really hard time finding any information on if I should drill my return into the back of the tank or use a HOB return line. What are the pros and cons of each? If I drill it, where do I put the holes in relation to the drilled holes for my overflow? Any information is greatly appreciated!

 

[lpsouth1978]

I prefer drilled returns over the over the rim style due simply to aesthetics. I think it looks cleaner. If you have a canopy, the over the top can look and function just as well and can easier to work with. If you drill the tank, I would drill close to the corners on the back wall. Always leave at least 2" from the edge of the hole to the edge of the tank. I try to drill the holes as close to the top as is safe to eliminate as much water draining into the sump as possible.

Hope this helps.