Head Loss Calculator

Calculate estimated head loss in a water pipe from flow rate, pipe diameter, pipe length, and pipe material. Estimate friction head loss, total dynamic head, PSI loss, loss per 100 feet, water velocity, outlet pressure, and equivalent pipe length.

Calculate Head Loss

Head Loss = Friction Head Loss + Elevation Head.
Your result will appear here.

How the head loss calculator works

Friction head loss:
The calculator estimates water pipe friction loss using a Hazen-Williams style relationship with flow rate, pipe diameter, pipe length, and pipe material.

Total dynamic head:
The calculator adds friction head loss, static head, and elevation change to estimate total dynamic head.

Outlet pressure:
The calculator converts head loss to PSI and subtracts it from starting pressure.

Why use a head loss calculator?

A head loss calculator helps estimate how much energy or pressure is lost as water moves through pipe, fittings, valves, elevation changes, and restrictions.

It can help compare friction head loss, PSI loss, total dynamic head, water velocity, loss per 100 feet, equivalent length, and outlet pressure.

What your result means

Your result shows estimated friction head loss, total head loss, PSI loss, total dynamic head, water velocity, equivalent length, and outlet pressure. These are planning estimates only. Actual results can vary based on fittings, valves, filters, pipe age, pipe material, water temperature, elevation, and full system layout.

Head loss formulas

Frequently asked questions

What is head loss?

Head loss is the loss of energy as water moves through pipe, fittings, valves, elevation changes, and restrictions. It is often expressed in feet of water.

How do you convert head loss to PSI?

Divide feet of head by 2.31. For example, 23.1 feet of head is about 10 PSI.

What increases head loss?

Higher flow rate, smaller pipe diameter, longer pipe length, rough pipe material, fittings, valves, filters, and elevation gain can increase head loss.

Is this head loss calculator exact?

No. This calculator provides a planning estimate. Final design should account for manufacturer data, fittings, valves, pump curves, local code, and the complete system design.