Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor

What is the maximum acceptable pressure difference in a drip system from the beginning to the end?

1. 10%

2. 15%

3. 20%

4. 25%

The correct answer is: 20%

The maximum acceptable pressure difference in a drip system from the beginning to the end is typically set at 20%. This standard ensures that the system operates efficiently, providing uniform water distribution across the irrigation zone. A pressure difference of more than 20% can lead to uneven flow rates from emitters, which can cause some areas to receive insufficient water while others may receive too much. This imbalance can negatively impact plant health and lead to issues such as overwatering in some areas and drought stress in others. Maintaining a pressure difference within this acceptable range encourages optimal operation of the emitters as they rely on consistent pressure to function correctly. Variations exceeding this limit may also indicate potential problems such as blockages or leaks in the system that could require further investigation and maintenance to ensure the system is delivering water appropriately.