Over flow question

[polarbear]

So I have noticed that my over flow doesn't suck stuff out of the water like I thought it should. I noticed it today while cleaning the algae out of my tank. Water flows through the cut outs in the top but when algae or other stuff floats by it seems to just keep floating by. What can I do to allow my water to flow through the overflow. I was thinking of cutting some of the plastic pieces out but am afraid that snails or hermit crabs will get through the bigger holes. Any suggestions?

[Cammed_02]

Try adjusting the level of the overflow box, lower or raise it to adjust the flow and see if that helps.

[polarbear]

It's a built in one. Do I just adjust the PVC tube?

[Cammed_02]

If that will allow you to adjust the water level, then yes play with it a bit and see if that helps.

[polarbear]

Thanks.

[rrasco]

Raising the water level by closing off the drain could be dangerous. Just FYI...be careful.

[polarbear]

im not closing off anything. I just want there to be faster flow through the cut outs in the overflow box so that more stuff gets sucked through there.

[hobogato]

the only way to make more water go thru the teeth of the overflow is to pump more water into the tank with a stronger return pump. just be sure your drain can keep up.

[Troy Valentine]

If you increase the size of the return pump, it will increase your ability to skim the surface. I wouldn't cut out the overflow fins.

[Troy Valentine]

Sorry Ace beat me to it:)

[polarbear]

thanks for the advice