Top EPANET Alternatives for Water Distribution System Modeling

EPANET, developed by EPA's Water Supply and Water Resources Division, has long been a go-to software for modeling water distribution piping systems. This public domain program allows users to simulate the hydraulic and water quality behavior within pressurized pipe networks, tracking water flow, pressure, tank levels, and chemical concentrations. While powerful and freely available, users often seek EPANET alternatives for specific features, different operating systems, or enhanced user experiences. Whether you need advanced analysis, a more intuitive interface, or commercial support, there are several excellent options available.

Best EPANET Alternatives

Looking for a different approach to your water network simulations? Here are some top contenders that offer robust features and unique benefits, making them strong EPANET alternatives.

Epanet viewer

Epanet viewer is a commercial solution available on iPhone and iPad, allowing you to view and calculate pipe hydraulic modeling files in EPANET format directly, even from email attachments. It's an excellent EPANET alternative for those needing mobile access to their models and on-the-go simulation capabilities.

pfcalc

pfcalc, short for pipe friction calculator, is a free and open-source command-line interface (CLI) program for Windows and Linux. It computes pressure drop in piping systems using the Darcy-Weisbach equation. While it offers a more focused scope without extensive features, it serves as a lightweight and free EPANET alternative for specific hydraulic calculations.

Utilis

Utilis provides freemium data-driven solutions for utilities and infrastructure, leveraging synthetic aperture radar (SAR) data. Available on Web, Android, and iPhone, it focuses on providing valuable insights for water utilities, making it a unique EPANET alternative if your needs extend beyond pure hydraulic modeling to data-driven operational intelligence.

TdhNet

TdhNet is a free water distribution system hydraulic model available for Linux and MS Windows. It boasts unlimited network size and ID size, offering robust capabilities without cost. As a direct download or from app stores, TdhNet stands out as a powerful and free EPANET alternative, especially for users seeking a comprehensive hydraulic model on open-source platforms.

InfoWater

InfoWater is a commercial, fully GIS-integrated water distribution modeling and management software application for Windows. Built atop ArcGIS™ using the latest Microsoft .NET and Esri technologies, it offers a sophisticated and comprehensive platform. For users deeply embedded in the Esri ecosystem, InfoWater is a premium EPANET alternative that provides seamless integration and advanced management features.

The best EPANET alternative for you will depend on your specific project requirements, budget, operating system preference, and desired feature set. We encourage you to explore these options further to find the perfect fit for your water distribution system modeling needs.