1. Inspect the zone
Before testing, look for blocked nozzles, tilted or sunken heads, leaks, overspray, poor overlap, and obvious pressure problems. Shut off pressurized equipment before touching it.
Support
Make the next test easier.
Start with the field guide and common questions below. If something in the app is not working as described, email us with the app version and a concise description—without including property details you do not need to share.
goodlittleapps.support@gmail.com · No account or support subscription required
Quick field guide
A repeatable catch-can test.
Consistency matters more than special equipment. Test one sprinkler zone at a time under reasonably calm conditions.
2. Place identical cups
Distribute identical, straight-sided containers throughout the watered area, including apparently wet and dry spots. Use a count divisible by four; 24 or more cups is recommended.
3. Run and measure
Run only that zone for the selected time. Measure every collector in the same unit. If using milliliters or fluid ounces, enter the collector’s inside opening diameter.
4. Diagnose, then retest
Review the score and outliers, correct visible faults where safe, and repeat the same layout and duration. Use runtime guidance only with a target depth appropriate for the site.
Safety first
Watch for slippery surfaces, traffic, pets, electrical equipment, and reclaimed water. Shut the system off before repairs. Use a qualified irrigation professional when a repair or pressurized system is outside your experience.
Common questions
What the numbers mean.
What is the SprinklerScore percentage?
It is Distribution Uniformity of the Low Quarter (DULQ): the average of the lowest quarter of readings divided by the overall average. For example, 0.76 is displayed as 76%. It describes how evenly this sample caught water; it is not a grade for the entire irrigation system or a certified audit.
Why must the number of cups be divisible by four?
The calculation sorts readings and uses the lowest one-quarter of them. A count divisible by four makes that group unambiguous. The app offers 8–20 cups for quick, limited checks and recommends at least 24 for a more representative field result.
Can I use tuna cans?
Yes, if the containers are identical, stable, and have straight sides with the same opening. Catch cups, shallow food cans, or similar collectors can work. If you enter depth directly, container area cancels out. If you enter volume, SprinklerScore needs the inside opening diameter to convert volume to depth.
What does the application rate mean?
The app converts the overall average catch depth during the test into depth per hour. For a 15-minute test, an average catch of 0.20 inches corresponds to 0.80 inches per hour. This describes the measured test conditions, which can change with pressure, wind, nozzle condition, and system setup.
Which runtime should I use?
The average runtime is the time required to apply the target depth you entered at the measured average rate. The dry-quarter runtime is a separate diagnostic showing how long the driest quarter would need if the pattern stayed unchanged. It is not automatically the better schedule: extending runtime can overwater already-wet areas. When uniformity is low, inspect, repair or adjust, and retest first.
Where does the target depth come from?
You supply it. SprinklerScore does not determine plant demand, evapotranspiration, soil storage, slope, weather adjustment, cycle-and-soak timing, or local watering restrictions. Use guidance from a trusted local extension office, water provider, landscape professional, or irrigation professional.
What if it is windy or runoff starts?
Record the condition and the approximate runoff time so it appears with the audit. Wind can move spray and distort readings; runoff means the soil or slope may not accept water as quickly as the sprinklers apply it. Consider repeating under calmer conditions and consult local guidance about shorter cycles and soak periods.
Does the app control my sprinkler system?
No. SprinklerScore does not connect to a controller, valve, weather service, or proprietary cup. It measures only from the information you enter and cannot start, stop, or change irrigation equipment.
Where are my audits stored?
On your iPhone in the app’s local data store. There is no SprinklerScore account or automatic cloud sync. Apple device backups may include app data depending on your settings. Read the Privacy Policy for details.
How do PDF and CSV sharing work?
SprinklerScore creates files locally. An audit detail screen can prepare a PDF; Settings can prepare a CSV containing all readings. A file leaves the app only after you choose a destination in Apple’s share sheet. Review labels and notes before sending them.
What is included for free?
One complete guided audit, saved result, and report are free. The optional Lifetime Unlimited non-consumable unlocks unlimited audits, repeat tests, comparisons, and reports. The intended United States price is $9.99; Apple displays the final localized price. There is no subscription.
How do I restore Lifetime Unlimited?
Use Restore Purchases in SprinklerScore Settings or on the purchase screen while signed into the Apple Account that made the purchase. An internet connection to Apple’s App Store is required. If the entitlement still does not appear, restart the app and contact support with the app version—never send a password or payment-card number.
How do I request a refund?
Apple processes App Store purchases and refund decisions. Use Apple’s official Report a Problem service. Good Little Apps does not receive your payment-card details and cannot issue an App Store refund directly.
How do I delete my data?
Delete an individual audit from its app controls, or use Delete All Audits in Settings. Deleting the app removes its local data, subject to any device backup retained through your Apple settings.
Still need help?
Send a focused support note.
Include the SprinklerScore version shown in Settings, your iPhone model, iOS version, what you expected, what happened, and steps that reproduce it. A screenshot is useful if it contains no private property information.