silly construction question

jason_sps · #1 10-20-2010, 04:34 AM

I'm starting my first vive and I was wondering how to hide the tubes and wires for the water pumps? I was also wondering how I could hide the pumps and still get to them without ripping everything out? Is that what everyone is using the egg crate for? Do I use the egg crate to make a "maintanance" chamber and then spray it with GS?

Grimm · #2 10-20-2010, 09:57 AM

Yes making a false back chamber is a method to be able to get at your pump. It is still a hastle however, since you will need to get behind the tank, or turn it, and remove the top, and shove your arm down the chamber. Next time I do a complicated water feature I will be using a sump for the pump and filter. Its more expensive, but its ay easier that way.

jason_sps · #3 10-20-2010, 04:34 PM

Thank you very much for that info. I was racking my brain thinking of ways I could hide the hoses, wires and the unit without completely covering them with GS. It changes my plans a bit but its for the better now. You made my life a bit easier, thank you again

Grimm · #4 10-20-2010, 04:44 PM

Or you can make a small box hatch, with the top covered in moss or something. Hide the pump inside, then run the tubes through the foam. Still a hastle since it doesnt look the best, and you have to shove your hands inside the enclosure.

jason_sps · #5 10-20-2010, 04:53 PM

What I plan on doing now is using styrofoam to make a box for the pump. Then I'm going to spray it all with gs and make a waterfall coming from the top of the box. Ill make a top for it but blend it in with the background. I've got a 30 gallon long tank and I'm adding 2 more feet on top from plexi. I am making a zig-zag waterfall to the pond at the bottom. I will post pics as I go. Hopefully I can post pics from my phone. I'm typing this from my Blackberry, lol.

jason_sps · #6 10-21-2010, 02:12 AM

Where can I get the egg crate? Is it in hobby stores such as Hobby Lobby?

Grimm · #7 10-21-2010, 09:40 AM

It is in any Home Depot, or major home/construction store. It's official name is a "Flourescent light Difuser", and they are found in the ceiling tile section of stores.

jason_sps · #8 10-21-2010, 02:17 PM

Duh, I thought it was some sort of special item. That's awesome though. And I noticed they are cut and strapped together with small zip ties?

Grimm · #9 10-21-2010, 02:22 PM

Yuppers. You should watch a few of my videos lol

jason_sps · #10 10-21-2010, 04:51 PM

I would love to see your videos. I always check this site from my Blackberry phone so ill check and see if I can watch your videos from here. - love watching "how-to" videos. Heck, I'm watching Old Yankee Workshop right now!! LOL