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SCS Landscaping / Measured sprinkler output

Catch-Cup Runtime Calculator

Measure what one sprinkler zone applies. Estimate minutes for a depth you choose, using your actual test duration. No target or watering schedule is supplied.

Learn the catch-cup method first

One zone, one measured test

Enter readings and your target

Keep every depth in the same unit. UF/IFAS suggests 5–10 straight-sided containers across one zone. Use an attended test permitted by applicable local rules; enter the duration you actually measured.

Enter the depth, not the container volume. Individual zero readings are allowed; the average must be positive. Blank lines are ignored. Switching units clears depth readings and target so measurements cannot be silently reinterpreted.

Choose a target appropriate to the plant, soil, rainfall and site with Extension or qualified guidance. This calculator does not decide whether or how often to water.

Calculator input limits

Use plain numbers with up to 4 decimal places.

Method and limits

Measured depth, visible arithmetic.

This is a sprinkler calibration estimate, not a plant-care prescription, hydraulic design or controller command.

Formula

Average → rate → minutes

  • Mean depth = sum of cup depths ÷ cup count
  • Hourly rate = 60 × mean depth ÷ test minutes
  • Runtime = target depth × test minutes ÷ mean depth

Use inches throughout or millimeters throughout. Calculations use unrounded values; depth and rate show up to 4 decimals, minutes up to 2.

Arithmetic example

A 0.25-inch measured average

If that depth was collected in 15 minutes, the measured rate is 1 inch/hour. A user-selected 0.5-inch target gives 30 minutes. These numbers illustrate math, not a recommended target or test duration.

Field review

Uneven cups need inspection.

Different readings may signal uneven coverage. Increasing runtime everywhere can overwater other areas. Check heads, pressure and obstructions; use representative measurements under stable conditions. This tool does not evaluate distribution uniformity or drip emitters.

Source and privacy

Extension method. Browser-only inputs.

UF/IFAS: Calibrating Your Irrigation System explains catch-cup averaging. Inputs are not submitted or saved by this tool. Copy and print occur only when you choose them.

Review before changing a controller.

No rainfall, soil moisture, plant demand, watering frequency or legal permission is inferred. Follow applicable local watering/testing restrictions and temporary orders.

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