Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards

“You can save money, energy and water by using more efficient tap ware “

The Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) scheme requires certain water-using products to be labelled for water efficiency. The products covered under the scheme are clothes washing machines, dishwashers, showers, toilets, urinals and taps, with flow controllers optional. The scheme helps consumers make informed decisions when buying water-using products to save water and money.

What does the WELS label mean?
The WELS water rating label carries two important pieces of information to help consumers compare products:
a one to six star rating on the product’s water efficiency
a number showing the water consumption per use or the water flow per minute.
More stars and a low number = better water efficiency.
The products are tested by a National Association of Testing Authorities accredited laboratory. These results are used to determine the star rating for each product.


Did you know?
A water-efficient washing machine may use only one-third the water of an inefficient model.
An old-style single-flush toilet could use up to 12 litres of water per flush, while a standard dual flush toilet uses just a quarter of this on a half-flush.
A standard showerhead may use up to 25 litres of water per minute whereas water-efficient showerhead might use as little as seven litres per minute, which is less than a third.