Few Questions - Waterfalls, filters

[FeralStars]

I have never done anything like this so I decided I would try small with a 20 gallon long. With a set up for like 3 fire bellied toads. I understand how the false bottom works and how to set up a pool of water and where to set up the waterfall, but my question is, if the waterfall is not directly behind the pool, like you create a mini stream where do you put the intake so the waterfall can get water up from the pond? Also I would like to have a small filter for the pool to help clean the toxins of the fire bellies. I know I will have to do partial water changes, but I was thinking this could be helpful. Thanks a ton for any help. I have been watching videos and reading through threads on building but some how I keep missing this step it seems.

[Mentat]

Hello and welcome to FF! Although I've seen set-ups with access to the pump in case of emergency; building something with easy access to filter for weekly maintenance, posses a design challenge if you desire a natural look. BTW, think the only way to remove toxins (which are not harmful to toads themselves) would be to use a product like API's Bio-Chem Sorb.

If going with filter the best bet would be to use a mini canister filter outside the tank. Then route the intake tube to pond area (or suitable place below false bottom). The outlet would then go into your waterfall; but you might need a "T" and valve set-up if filter overpowers waterfall. The one valved output would go to fall and the excess water could be routed from other "T" outlet into area below false bottom far away from intake. Good luck !

[FeralStars]

Thanks for the warm welcome!
I am going to try sometime in this month with my 20 gallon or maybe a 10 gallon (so its even less mess to clean up if I mess up!). My question was also to lead into a bigger project. I was lucky enough to get a 90 gallon tank for next to nothing which in the future I would like to set up if I can find a stand or something suitable to to place it on. I just want to learn first and be a little more confident in my constructing abilities before going forward with something bigger.

[deranged chipmunk]

It is always good to start small and work your way up. Just remember, get a design in your head and test, test, test. And when you are confident, test some more.

I agree with Carlos, if you are building a tank where you need access to filter material occasionally, a canister is the way to go.

As far as a stand for the 90, simple, a piece of plywood the size of the tank, numerous cinder blocks (about $1.50 each at big box hardware stores) and a table cloth, and you got yourself a cheap, but ridiculously strong stand.