Use the tuna can test to measure sprinkler output

Steps

1. Place 5-6 empty tuna cans (or similar straight-sided containers) around your lawn within the sprinkler's coverage area.
2. Run the sprinkler for 30 minutes.
3. Measure the water depth in each can with a ruler.
4. Average the measurements to determine how much water your sprinkler delivers per 30 minutes.
5. Calculate how long you need to run the sprinkler to deliver 1 inch.

Why It Works

Most homeowners have no idea how much water their sprinkler actually delivers. The tuna can test reveals both the output rate and the uniformity of coverage. Uneven distribution is the number-one cause of brown spots in irrigated lawns.

Tips

• If some cans are much fuller than others, your sprinkler pattern needs adjustment or overlapping.
• Repeat this test when you change sprinkler heads or positions.