Setting Up the OASIS Code 30 Base Module
Hands-on techniques for building habitats, hardscape structures, moss walls, water features, and living environments. Each guide focuses on practical methods, materials, and workshop-tested processes.
Before plants, water and hardscape are added, the OASIS structure must be assembled and mounted correctly.
This guide follows the complete installation sequence for joining the base plates, securing them to the tank and connecting the pump tubing. The finished system will be ready for planting and scaping.
What You’ll Need
- OASIS Core 30 Set — Includes the modular plates, planting sponges, mounting components, pump and tubing used in this guide.
Before You Begin
Lay out all components on a clean work surface. Complete the main assembly before adding plants, water or hardscape.
Test-fit each connector before tightening anything. Parts that are correctly aligned should slide together without excessive force.
Step 1 — Identify the Two Flow Path Connectors
Keep both connectors aside until the main structure has been assembled. They are similar in size but are not interchangeable.
Step 2 — Attach the First Column Holder
Slide the column holder into the connection point on the first base plate. Push it in until the two parts sit flush.
If the holder does not enter cleanly, remove it and realign the connection. Do not twist or force it into place.
Step 3 — Tighten the First Base Plate
Insert the mounting bolt and tighten it until the base plate is held firmly against the column holder.
Stop once the connection no longer shifts. Overtightening is unnecessary.
Step 4 — Join the Second Base Plate
Slide the second base plate onto the open side of the column holder.
Align the upper flow paths before pushing the plate fully into place. Both plates should sit at the same height.
Step 5 — Check the Rear Connection
Turn the assembly around and inspect the rear connection.
Confirm that both plates are fully seated against the column holder and that there is no visible gap between the parts.
Step 6 — Fit the Planting Sponges
Align each planting sponge with the four studs on its base plate. Press around the studs until the sponge sits flat.
Do not stretch or compress the sponge more than necessary.
Step 7 — Secure the Assembly to the Tank
Place the assembled unit over the tank rim with the base plates hanging inside the tank.
Tighten the mounting bolt until the holder grips the glass securely and the assembly no longer rocks.
The bolt only needs to prevent movement. Excessive pressure may place unnecessary stress on the glass.
Step 8 — Insert the Drain Hook
Lower the drain hook vertically into the slot at the top of the column holder.
Push it down until it is fully seated and remains upright without wobbling.
Step 9 — Lock Adjacent Columns Together
The U connector stabilises the two columns and keeps the upper flow path aligned across the joined modules.
Do not leave the U connector partially inserted. Both sides must sit fully inside the drain-hook grooves.
Step 10 — Inspect the Completed Structure
Check the entire installation before connecting the pump.
- Each holder is firmly mounted to the tank.
- The base plates hang straight.
- The planting sponges sit flat.
- The drain hooks are fully inserted.
- The U connectors are fully seated.
- The upper flow path remains aligned.
Step 11 — Connect the Tubing to the Pump
Push one end of the supplied tubing fully over the pump outlet.
Route the tubing upward without folding or sharply bending it.
Step 12 — Attach the Input Connector
Push the free end of the tubing onto the input connector until it sits securely.
Support the connector with one hand while fitting the tubing so the small part is not twisted.
Step 13 — Install the Input Connector
Insert the connected input fitting into the first drain hook at the beginning of the flow path.
Check that the tubing runs cleanly down to the pump and is not trapped behind the modules.
Final Installation Check
The OASIS base system is now assembled and ready for the next stage.
- Confirm that the end cap is fitted at the opposite end of the flow path.
- Check that every module remains level.
- Make sure all mounting bolts are snug but not overtightened.
- Confirm that the pump tubing has no sharp bends.
- Do not add water until the full connection path has been inspected.
Common Installation Mistakes
Forcing Misaligned Parts
Remove the part, realign it and try again. Correctly positioned connectors should not require heavy pressure.
Overtightening the Tank Mount
Tighten only until the holder stops moving against the glass.
Leaving a U Connector Half-Inserted
Push it fully into both drain-hook grooves so the columns and flow path remain aligned.
Forgetting the End Cap
Install the end cap at the far end of the flow path before the system is filled or tested.
Kinking the Pump Tubing
Use a smooth route from the pump to the input connector so the tubing is not compressed behind the modules.
Build Your Own OASIS Living Wall
This guide uses the components supplied with the OASIS Core 30 Set . The set includes the modular plates, planting sponges, pump, tubing and mounting hardware shown throughout the installation process.
