Irrigation Run Time Calculator

ByTeam Farmingram Updated on

What is an Irrigation Run Time?

When it comes to irrigation, efficiency is key.

Knowing the optimal run time for your irrigation system can make a world of difference in ensuring your plants receive the right amount of water without wastage.

To determine the irrigation run time, you must first gather some key information. Here’s what you’ll need:

  1. Precipitation rate: This refers to the amount of water delivered by your irrigation system, usually measured in inches per hour (or millimeters per hour if you prefer the metric system). This information can typically be found in the manufacturer’s specifications for your sprinklers or drip emitters.
  2. The desired depth of water: Different plants have varying water requirements. Consult reputable sources or gardening experts to determine the ideal depth of water your specific plants need to thrive. This is typically measured in inches or millimeters.

Irrigation Run Time Calculation Formula

Now that you have these essential pieces of the puzzle, it’s time to put them together. Brace yourself for the magical formula:

Run Time = Desired depth of water / Precipitation rate


Let’s break it down.

By dividing the desired depth of water by the precipitation rate, you’re essentially finding out how long you need to run your irrigation system to achieve the desired water depth.

Simple, right?

For example, let’s say you have a garden bed that requires 1 inch of water, and your sprinklers have a precipitation rate of 0.5 inches per hour. Plugging these values into the formula, you get:

Run Time = 1 inch / 0.5 inches per hour = 2 hours

In this case, you would need to run your sprinklers for 2 hours to deliver the desired 1 inch of water to your plants.


But wait, there’s more!

It’s essential to consider other factors that may affect the irrigation run time. Factors like soil type, weather conditions, and the water-holding capacity of your soil can influence how efficiently water is absorbed by your plants. Keep an eye on these variables and make adjustments as needed to fine-tune your irrigation practices.

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