How to Use This Calculator
- Enter your flow rate in gallons per minute (GPM). This can typically be found on your water meter or irrigation controller.
- Input the total area being irrigated in square feet. You can calculate this by multiplying the length and width of your irrigated area.
- Enter the duration of each irrigation cycle in minutes.
- Click the "Calculate" button to determine your water factor.
Understanding Your Results
The calculator provides two key metrics:
- Water Applied: Total gallons of water used in each irrigation cycle.
- Water Factor: The efficiency of your irrigation system, measured in gallons per square foot. A lower water factor indicates more efficient water use.
Irrigation Efficiency Thresholds
- Excellent (Green): Water Factor ≤ 0.5 gallons/sq ft - Highly efficient irrigation
- Good (Blue): 0.5 < Water Factor ≤ 1.0 gallons/sq ft - Generally efficient irrigation
- Moderate (Yellow): 1.0 < Water Factor ≤ 2.0 gallons/sq ft - Consider optimizing your system
- Poor (Red): Water Factor > 2.0 gallons/sq ft - Immediate optimization needed to reduce water waste
Optimization Tips
To improve your water factor and reduce water waste, consider these tips:
- Install water-efficient sprinkler heads
- Adjust sprinkler heads to avoid watering sidewalks, driveways, or hard surfaces
- Consider soil type and adjust watering based on actual needs
- Use smart irrigation controllers that adjust based on weather conditions
- Check for and repair leaks in your irrigation system