Nozzle discharge rate and sprayer calibration should be checked with clean water BEFORE adding pesticide.

Checking the nozzle discharge rate and calibrating the sprayer with clean water before adding pesticides is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures that the equipment is functioning correctly and that the correct amount of liquid is being discharged. This is important for achieving effective pest control while minimizing the risk of environmental contamination or harm to non-target organisms.

Using clean water allows applicators to gain accurate readings on the flow rate and pressure of the sprayer. These parameters must be established before introducing pesticides because any discrepancies could lead to under- or over-application of the chemical, potentially rendering the treatment ineffective or causing unintended damage to the environment or the target area.

Additionally, conducting this check with water helps to avoid any potential interactions that might occur if pesticides are used during the calibration process, which could compromise the integrity of the equipment or the chemical itself. Therefore, calibrating the sprayer with clean water first establishes a reliable baseline for performance, ensuring that when pesticides are applied, they are delivered in the intended manner and quantity.