How many catch cans are recommended for performing an irrigation system test?

• A. 12
• B. 18
• C. 24
• D. 30

Answer: (C)

The recommended number of catch cans for performing an irrigation system test is 24. Using 24 catch cans allows for a comprehensive assessment of how evenly water is distributed across the landscape. This number enables the landscaper to gather enough data points to evaluate the system's performance accurately.

When conducting an irrigation audit, the catch cans are placed throughout the area being irrigated to measure the amount of water applied over a set period. With 24 cans, the samples collected help identify areas of over- or under-watering, leading to more informed adjustments to the irrigation system. This thorough data collection is key to promoting water efficiency, as it assists in optimizing the irrigation schedule and improving the overall management of water resources in landscaping practices.

Using fewer catch cans may not provide a representative enough sample to make accurate evaluations, leading to potentially inefficient watering practices. Hence, the recommendation of 24 cans provides a balance between thoroughness in data collection and the practicality of executing an irrigation test efficiently.