Protect important work first
If the project contains significant unsaved work and Save Project is available, create a .ra file before reloading, clearing the session, or making major changes.
Common issues
Demand is too low or high
Review gallons/head/day assumptions, head counts, hot-weather settings, and adjustment percentages.
Refill time looks impossible
Confirm source GPM and the amount of capacity that actually needs to be recovered.
System shows a deficit
Compare peak demand, reserve target, trough/storage capacity, and desired recovery time rather than changing only one value.
Multiple water points do not balance
Verify allocation percentages across water points are configured as intended.
If the result still does not make sense
Return to the primary inputs and verify units, then open View Calculation Details where available. Compare the displayed formula inputs with the values you intended to enter. Next, remove nonessential Advanced assumptions and add them back one at a time.
If a map feature is involved
Check geometry at close zoom, layer visibility, and whether the correct feature is selected. A misplaced point or duplicate feature can materially change area, distance, or cost results.
If export or project saving fails
Use the shared Help Center articles for .ra project compatibility, browser downloads, PDF/Print, CSV, PNG/Map, and GeoJSON troubleshooting.
Planning note
This calculator is a planning aid and not a certification of animal-welfare or engineering compliance. Actual water demand and system performance depend on animals, weather, forage, water quality, plumbing, source reliability, and field conditions.
