How to Install a Oxygenator

How to Install a Oxygenator

April 22, 2025

 

Whether you're a weekend warrior or a seasoned tournament angler, keeping your catch healthy is a top priority. That’s where the T-H Marine Oxygenator comes in—a powerful tool designed to increase dissolved oxygen levels in your livewell and keep fish alive and thriving for hours.

Installing the Oxygenator is a straightforward DIY project. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the steps to get it up and running in your boat’s livewell system.

What You'll Need:

  • T-H Marine Oxygenator kit
  • Drill with hole saw or step bit (1-1/4” recommended)
  • Phillips screwdriver
  • Wire strippers and crimpers
  • Heat shrink butt connectors
  • Marine-grade silicone sealant
  • Electrical tape
  • 12V power source (typically the boat’s accessory panel or fuse block)

1. Choose the Mounting Location

Pick a spot on the side wall of your livewell, as close to the bottom as possible. The Oxygenator must be fully submerged during use to effectively infuse oxygen into the water. Avoid placing it directly in line with water inflow or outflow ports to prevent interference.

2. Drill the Hole

Use a hole saw or step bit to drill a 1-1/4” hole at your chosen spot. This hole will accommodate the main body of the Oxygenator. Make sure the location is clear of wiring, hoses, or other obstructions on the outside of the livewell.

3. Install the Oxygenator

Insert the Oxygenator unit into the hole from the inside of the livewell. From the outside, secure it with the provided mounting nut. Tighten everything by hand—don’t overtighten, as that could crack the livewell wall or the unit’s flange.

4. Connect the Wiring

The Oxygenator™ runs on 12 volts and typically comes with two wires: red (positive) and black (ground).

  • Run the wires to your boat’s power source.
  • Strip the ends and use heat shrink butt connectors to make watertight electrical connections.
  • Connect the red wire to a fused accessory switch.
  • Connect the black wire to a good ground location or grounding bus.

5. Test the System

Fill your livewell with water and flip the switch. You should hear a faint buzzing sound and see fine bubbles forming—that’s the Oxygenator at work.

Reminder: The unit only functions when submerged in water.

Why the Oxygenator Makes a Difference

Unlike standard aerators that pump air into the water, the Oxygenator uses electrolysis to infuse pure oxygen—not just atmospheric air. This means:

  • Higher oxygen saturation
  • Reduced fish stress
  • Better survival rate after weigh-in

Plus, it's maintenance-free and doesn’t rely on hoses, pumps, or stones. Once installed, it's ready to perform whenever you need it.