Sprinkler
Precipitation Rate
(Water Volume)
Precipitation rate varies for all sprinkler hoses, systems
and zones. You can measure the sprinkler precipitation rate of
your irrigation device to more accurately determine how long you
need to water.
There is a simple test you can
perform to determine your sprinkler precipitation rate. Place a
rain gauge or straight-edged "tuna" can around the sprinkler. Run the
sprinkler for 15 minutes. Measure the amount of water in the can with a
ruler. Multiply your results by 4. This is your hourly
precipitation rate for that zone, or irrigation device.
If your irrigation system is low volume, you may have to run
it for 30 minutes and then multiply by 2, to get your hourly
rate.
Multiple "catch" cans may be used, and the results
averaged, for increased accuracy. This is especially useful when
measuring on a slope or hill side.
Enter your precipitation rate in
inches per hour.
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