Conceptually the idea is simple. You need to get rid of excess dirty water in your vivarium. So you need to drill a hole to let any water over a certain level out (always good to keep a little water in to increase humidity levels). The second problem is being able to attach a hose to that hole to send the water somewhere else, preferable downward so gravity does all the work. The third problem is ensuring that water doesn’t leak somewhere other than where the hose sends it, and the forth problem is making sure something large doesn’t cover the hole and stop water from going where it needs.

My solution was the $2.95 Bulkhead Fitting found online as FILL / DRAIN FITTING ADAPTER. You can use a 1″ drill bit to drill the glass, and it fits perfectly. Fits a 1/2″ hose. Fits tights and I feel safe there will be no leaks. Plus it comes with a filter to keep big things from blocking the hole. I happen to be lucky enough to live around a bunch of medical cannabis collectives, which means I also have a couple of hydroponics stores close by for those who like to grow their own.

For a couple bucks more I was going to go with a black plastic spigot on the front, but I didn’t really want to drain the water myself, or have my son accidentally let the water out. And I had 5 inches of space behind the tanks to bend the hose. I hope to complete 6 of the 24 tanks with fixtures by the end of the week, and post them.