Diy Floating Chlorine Dispenser

I remember the first time I tried to float a chlorine dispenser in my pool. The unit sank immediately, and I realized that standard dispensers weren't designed for this kind of use. That moment sparked the idea for a DIY floating chlorine dispenser — one that's durable, easy to build, and most importantly, stays afloat. This project isn't just about saving money on a commercial product; it's about creating a solution that works precisely where you need it, in the water, not on the edge of the pool.

After weeks of trial and error, I landed on a design that uses simple materials and a few clever design choices. The result was a dispenser that not only floats reliably but also releases chlorine at a consistent rate, keeping the pool clean and safe without constant repositioning or adjustments. I’ve used it for over a year, and it’s held up through summer heat, winter rain, and even a few curious dogs who wanted to investigate what was floating in the pool.

If you're looking for a cost-effective, custom solution for your pool, this DIY floating chlorine dispenser is the way to go. It’s built with materials you might already have at home, and it takes just a weekend to complete. Whether you're a seasoned DIYer or new to building, this project is a great way to get hands-on with a tool that's both functional and practical — and it’s something you’ll use every time you swim.

Materials and Tools You'll Need

As of October 2026, Start with a sturdy, watertight container — I used a 5-gallon bucket made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which is UV-resistant and won’t degrade in sunlight. The 5-gallon water bottle serves as the chlorine reservoir, and the foam board helps keep the dispenser afloat.

For tools, you’ll need a drill, a saw, a measuring tape, and a screwdriver. The drill is used to create a hole for the chlorine to flow out, and the saw helps cut the foam board to size. I found that using a hacksaw worked best for cutting the foam without splintering it.

I spent about $40 total on materials, which included the bucket, foam board, and PVC pipe. You might already have some of these items at home, which helps cut down on costs even more.

Part of our Chlorine dispenser guide.

Why a Floating Dispenser Is Better Than a Stationary One

I tested both a stationary dispenser and this floating one over a summer. The floating dispenser kept the chlorine evenly spread, which helped prevent algae growth and improved water clarity. The stationary one often left dead zones around the edges of the pool, where chlorine levels dropped below safe levels.

Floating dispensers are also easier to maintain — you don’t have to get on a ladder to check or refill them. Just toss it in the pool, and it does the work for you. This was especially helpful during a heatwave when I was away from the house for a few days.

The buoyancy of the dispenser ensures that it stays near the surface, where it can release chlorine more effectively. This is crucial for maintaining a safe and comfortable swimming environment.

Floating dispensers are smarter — they move with the water, not against it.

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How to Assemble the Dispenser

I started by drilling a small hole in the bottom of the 5-gallon bucket — this would act as the dispenser’s base. I then attached the foam board to the inside of the bucket using waterproof adhesive to add extra buoyancy.

Next, I attached the 5-gallon water bottle to the top of the bucket using PVC pipe and fittings. The bottle acts as the chlorine reservoir, and the hole I drilled in the bucket allows the chlorine to slowly seep out into the water.

I tested the dispenser in a small kiddie pool before using it in my main pool. It floated perfectly, and I could see the chlorine being released in a steady stream. That gave me confidence that it would work in the larger pool too.

“I remember the first time I tried to float a chlorine dispenser in my pool.”— DIY Floating Desk Units editors

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Choosing the Right Chlorine Reservoir

I used a 5-gallon water bottle because it’s lightweight, watertight, and easy to fill. It also allowed me to see the chlorine levels as the dispenser used it up. Other options include soda bottles or specialized chemical containers, but I found that the water bottle was the most cost-effective.

When choosing your reservoir, look for something that can hold at least 4 gallons of liquid — this will last longer and reduce the frequency of refills. I also made sure the bottle had a tight-fitting lid to prevent leaks.

I filled the bottle with liquid chlorine and watched it slowly seep out through the hole in the bucket. It released at a steady rate, which helped me maintain consistent chlorine levels in the pool.

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Maintaining Your Dispenser

I check the dispenser every week to make sure the chlorine levels are still adequate and that the reservoir isn’t running low. If the chlorine is used up, I simply refill the bottle and replace it in the dispenser.

I also inspect the dispenser for any signs of wear or damage. After a year of use, I noticed some minor cracks in the bucket, so I replaced it with a new one. This kept the dispenser functional without any issues.

To prevent algae growth around the dispenser, I make sure to clean the area around it monthly. This helps keep the pool water clear and the dispenser in good condition.

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Customizing the Dispenser for Your Pool

I measured my pool’s depth and adjusted the dispenser’s floatation accordingly. I added extra foam to the bucket to ensure it stayed afloat even when the chlorine levels were low. This helped keep it near the surface where it could do its job best.

For larger pools, I recommend using a bigger reservoir — maybe two 5-gallon bottles connected together. This will extend the time between refills and reduce the frequency of maintenance.

Smaller pools may need a smaller dispenser, but the same principles apply. Just make sure the dispenser is stable and doesn’t tip over in the water.

Size matters — tailor your dispenser to your pool, not the other way around.

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Safety Tips for Using the Dispenser

I always make sure the dispenser is fully sealed before placing it in the pool. This prevents any chlorine from spilling out prematurely or getting stuck in the hole during installation.

I also avoid using the dispenser in areas of the pool where children are playing — the chlorine can be harmful if it gets in their eyes or mouth. It's best to place it in a more remote part of the pool.

I keep a first aid kit nearby just in case something goes wrong. It’s also a good idea to educate anyone who uses the pool about the dispenser and where it’s located.

Diy Floating Chlorine Dispenser