Garden SurveyorIrrigation Systems Calculator
Size a garden irrigation system from a bucket-flow test: converts supply flow into litres/min, applies friction loss, splits the system into hydraulically viable zones and returns a priced bill of materials.
What you're watering — biases the system recommendation.
The distribution method to size and cost.
Mains pressure at rest (3.0 Bar ≈ 45 PSI is typical UK).
Time your outside tap filling a standard 10-litre bucket — sets available flow.
1 advanced input hidden. Switch to Advanced to fine-tune.
Order what you need for this job
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- Total area (m²)
- 32m²
- Available flow rate (LPM)
- 30
- Zones required
- 2
- System flow demand (LPM)
- 36.8
- Working pressure (Bar)
- 2.9
2
Zones required
30 LPM
Available flow
Moderate
Complexity
⚠️ Inadequate Flow Rate for Single Zone Run. Automatically splitting system into 2 independent zones using a multi-way solenoid manifold.
Run-time schedule
Optimised zone order
Each bar is when a zone runs across the morning. Zones already run at the best time, so nothing was moved.
- 1Zone 1kept6:00 am – 6:07 am
- Already clear of the restricted band — kept in place
- Run time preserved at 7 min — weekly volume unchanged
- 2Zone 2kept6:07 am – 6:14 am
- Already clear of the restricted band — kept in place
- Run time preserved at 7 min — weekly volume unchanged
2 zones run back-to-back from 6:00 am (14 min total).
Best watered early morning (5–7 am). 2 zones run in sequence. Reduce after rainfall and outside the growing season.
Bill of materials
25 mm MDPE supply pipe
Main run + distribution (25 mm)
£48
23 m @ £2
Porous drip-line
Grid @ 0.35 m spacing
£147
92 m @ £2
Compression elbow / tee fitting
1 per 6 m of rigid pipe
£10
4 each @ £2
Multi-way solenoid manifold connector
One manifold port per zone
£56
2 zone @ £28
Hold-down pipe stakes (bulk pack of 50)
Pin runs to ground
£28
4 pack @ £7
Joining clips (bulk pack)
Secure connections
£6
1 pack @ £6
PTFE thread tape
Seal threaded joints
£3
1 roll @ £3
Indicative estimate
Indicative UK retail (ex VAT & delivery). Trade prices refine these in the quote editor.
Matched to your spec. Partner links — we may earn a small commission if you buy, at no cost to you.
Essentials for this job
Quantities include a ~10% waste allowance. Guide prices are indicative UK ranges (materials only, inc. VAT) — always confirm with the supplier before ordering.
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Compare quotes from vetted local trades using this exact spec.
Ad · Some links are sponsored. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Suppliers are chosen for fit, not commission.
This app provides general UK guidance and material estimates only. It is not legal, planning, engineering or building-control advice. Always confirm requirements with your local planning authority, building control, utility providers, manufacturers or qualified professionals.