Water Usage Estimator

Overview

Multiplies zones × minutes × GPM × watering days and applies 4.33 weeks per month plus a displayed planning water rate.

Assumptions

• Every zone runs at the entered flow and runtime.
• The displayed $5.50 per 1,000 gal rate is only an estimate.

Worked example

Four zones × 20 min × 8 GPM = 640 gal per cycle; at 3 days/week that is 1,920 gal/week and about 8,314 gal/month.

Common mistakes

• Using controller runtime without verifying actual zone flow.
• Treating the displayed cost as a utility bill.

Limitations

Tiered rates, rain, seasonal programming, leaks, and precipitation depth are not modeled.

Safety and local requirements

Follow watering restrictions and protect potable water with locally required backflow measures.

Sources

• EPA — Soak Up the Rain
• EPA WaterSense — irrigation efficiency background