You can choose water efficient products with the help of the Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) scheme water rating label. This can help you save water as well as energy and money.
In 2025 the scheme is estimated to have saved 2060 gigalitres of water and $16.7 billion in water and energy bills since its inception in 2006.
The scheme is estimated to save 209 gigalitres and $1.6 billion on utility bills in 2025 alone across Australia. For a 4-person household, that is a saving of over $170.
Products covered
The WELS scheme regulates:
- Taps and showers
- Toilets and urinals
- Dishwashers and washing machines
- Flow controllers
These products must be WELS registered for the Australian market and labelled with their water efficiency information when they are offered for sale.
How to read the WELS label
There are three parts to the label.
- The star rating at the top shows the water efficiency of the product. The more stars, the more water efficient.
- The water consumption rate in the middle shows the amount of water used.
- The company name and the WELS license number are at the bottom. This company is responsible for registering the product.
You can use the WELS product register to confirm a product’s registration status and the water efficiency information.
Think long term
The plumbing products you buy today will likely be used for over 10 years, impacting your water and energy bills long-term. Choosing water-efficient products helps conserve Australia's water resources. Every drop counts!