How to Use the Hose Flow Rate Calculator

A Hose Flow Rate Calculator estimates how much water flows through a hose per minute, based on the hose’s diameter and the water velocity.

What It Does:

This calculator helps homeowners, gardeners, and irrigation specialists determine how much water is being delivered through a hose. Knowing the flow rate in gallons per minute (GPM) helps you plan watering times, irrigation schedules, or check system efficiency.

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Steps to Use:

1. Enter the hose’s inner diameter (in inches). Common sizes are 0.5", 0.75", or 1".
2. Enter the velocity of water in feet per second (fps). This can be measured or estimated (typical home hose pressure gives about 5 fps).
3. Click “Calculate Flow Rate.”

The calculator will display your estimated flow rate in gallons per minute (GPM).

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Example:

If you have a 0.75-inch garden hose and the water moves at 5 ft/s:

• Flow rate ≈ 19.98 GPM
  (Meaning about 20 gallons are delivered every minute through the hose.)

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Hose Flow Rate Calculator FAQ

Q1: What is the formula used in this calculator?
A: The formula is:
  Flow Rate (GPM) = Area × Velocity × 7.48052 × 60
Where area is the cross-sectional area of the hose (in ft²), and velocity is in ft/s.

Q2: How do I estimate water velocity if I don’t know it?
A: For home garden hoses, water velocity typically ranges from 4 to 8 feet per second. You can use 5 ft/s as a general estimate.

Q3: Can I use this for pipes instead of hoses?
A: Yes! As long as you know the diameter and water velocity, this calculator works for pipes, tubes, or any circular conduit.

Q4: Does this account for water pressure or friction loss?
A: No. This calculator assumes ideal conditions. It doesn’t account for friction loss, bends, or elevation changes.

Q5: Why is the unit in gallons per minute (GPM)?
A: GPM is the most common unit for measuring residential water flow, especially in irrigation and plumbing.