Water flow rates are best estimated when drinkers are being used at peak demand and should be tested every week during the growing cycle to ensure that water supply is high enough to meet maximum daily water intake demands.

Equipment list

– Graduated plastic jug
– Watch or stopwatch
– Pipe wrench or monkey wrench
– Pipe grips
– Longnose pliers
– Spare drinkers
– Plumber’s tape (e.g. thread sealing tape)

Procedure

– Collect water into the jug for 30 seconds – double this measurement for the flow rate per minute.
– Check flow rate of first and last drinker in the house, which checks for pressure drop along the line.
– If the flow rate at any particular drinker is low, remove, clean and if necessary, replace the drinker head.
– Refit, with plumber’s tape if required.
– Re‐check the flow rate with a cleaned drinker and filter.