WideCalculator / Water

Irrigation Water Audit & Cost Planner

Measure what a sprinkler zone is actually applying, turn runtime into gallons and cost, identify abnormal use, compare upgrades, and see how far stored rainwater can go.

Example catch-can audit 15-minute test 8 readings average 0.46 inches Application rate 1.83 inches per hour About 16 minutes to apply 0.5 inches About 374 gallons across 1,200 sq ft

Catch-can measurements

Run one zone for a known time, measure several identical containers, and enter the water depth. The result reflects the real nozzles, pressure, spacing, wind, and obstructions present during the test.

EPA WaterSense recommends a simple can test for runtime calibration
Separate readings with commas, spaces, or new lines. Use the same depth unit selected above. Four or more readings make the low-quarter comparison more meaningful.
How to place the containers

Use identical straight-sided containers distributed across one zone. Avoid changing the controller schedule, nozzle setup, or water pressure during the test. Repeat under calm conditions when possible.

Measure first, then schedule

EPA WaterSense recommends placing several identical containers around a lawn and timing how long the sprinklers take to apply about half an inch. The actual readings help reveal uneven coverage that a nominal sprinkler specification cannot show.

Precipitation rate = average catch depth ÷ test minutes × 60

Gallons applied = area in sq ft × target inches × 0.623376

Low-quarter distribution uniformity compares the average of the lowest quarter of readings with the average of all readings. It is a coverage diagnostic, not the same thing as overall efficiency.

Reduce runoff without reducing required minutes

When water begins to pool, the same total runtime can be split into shorter cycles separated by soak periods. EPA notes that clay-rich soils and slopes may benefit when irrigation is applied in intervals rather than one continuous run.

The tool uses the runoff time you observed. It does not infer a precise infiltration rate from a generic soil label.

Use cost and repair evidence together

Compare expected and measured zone flow, record visible problems, and repeat the measurement after repairs. EPA recommends monthly inspection for leaks, broken or clogged heads, and water spraying onto pavement.

The cost estimate includes only the variable rate you enter. Fixed service charges, minimum bills, drought surcharges, and tiered pricing may require a separate utility calculation.

Controller savings are a scenario, not a promise

EPA says WaterSense-labeled weather-based and soil-moisture-based controllers can reduce unnecessary irrigation. Its national reference says an average home may save up to 15,000 gallons annually when replacing a clock-based controller, but a specific property can save more or less.

Use your own baseline, expected savings percentage, rebate, installation cost, and local rate rather than treating the national reference as a guaranteed result.