Since 1 July 2006, water efficiency labelling for water-related fixtures and appliances has been mandatory. Under the Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards Scheme (WELS) all toilets, showerheads, taps, clothes washers and dishwashers are registered and rated in accordance with Australian and New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 6400:2016 and must be labelled based on how efficiently they use or deliver water before they may be sold in Australia.
The label shows:
- zero to six-star rating that allows a quick comparative assessment of the product's water efficiency
- a figure relating to the water consumption/flow rate of the product, based on laboratory tests.
The testing requirements to determine water flow rates for the WELS ratings of showerheads and taps cover both high pressure (at or above 150kPa) and low pressure (under 150kPa) conditions. The tap or fixture installed should be rated in accordance with the pressure available.
Products currently covered by WELS scheme:
- showerheads
- taps and tap outlets (excluding taps exclusively over baths)
- toilet suites or matched cistern and pan sets
- appliances (unit developments only).
The more stars a water fixture or appliance has, the greater the water efficiency of that fixture and the greater the BASIX water target savings.
In addition, choosing more efficient hot water-using fixtures, such as showerheads and taps, will have a positive impact on your BASIX energy score.
Find more information on the Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) Scheme