<![CDATA[Background Water distribution systems require accurate analysis of flow characteristics and head losses to ensure efficient hydraulic performance. Manual calculations using fluid mechanics equations can be used to determine flow losses in pipes and fittings, while hydraulic simulation software such as EPANET 2.0 provides an alternative approach for analyzing water distribution systems. However, differences between manual calculations, Microsoft Excel calculations, and EPANET 2.0 simulations require further evaluation to assess the consistency and accuracy of the results. Purpose This study aims to calculate water flow and head losses in a water distribution system using manual calculations and Microsoft Excel, and to compare the results with those obtained using EPANET 2.0 software Methodology The study applies hydraulic calculations based on the Reynolds number (Re), Darcy–Weisbach equation for major head loss, and minor loss equation for fittings and other hydraulic components. The equations used include (Re = \frac{\rho VD}{\mu} = \frac{VD}{\nu}), (h_f = f\frac{LV^2}{2gD}), and (h_m = K\frac{V^2}{2g}). Microsoft Excel is used to facilitate the calculation of friction factors and pipe head losses. The results are subsequently compared with simulations conducted using EPANET 2.0, which models physical components including junctions, reservoirs, tanks, emitters, pipes, pumps, valves, and minor losses. The Hazen–Williams equation is applied in EPANET 2.0 for head-loss calculations. Findings The analysis provides comparative results of flow characteristics and head losses obtained through manual calculations, Microsoft Excel, and EPANET 2.0 simulations. The comparison indicates the extent of agreement between the analytical and software-based approaches and identifies differences resulting from the calculation methods and hydraulic assumptions applied in each approach. Implications The comparison provides practical information regarding the applicability of manual calculations, Microsoft Excel, and EPANET 2.0 for hydraulic analysis. The results can support students, researchers, and practitioners in selecting an appropriate calculation and simulation approach for evaluating water distribution systems and pipe-flow losses. Originality This study contributes a comparative framework for evaluating hydraulic head-loss calculations using conventional fluid mechanics equations, Microsoft Excel, and EPANET 2.0. The comparison provides an integrated perspective on the consistency of manual and software-based hydraulic analysis.]]>
