WELS & Water Ratings Explained: A Buyer’s Guide to Smarter, Greener Choices

In Australia, where water conservation is paramount, understanding the Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) scheme is essential for making informed choices about water-using products. This guide will help you navigate WELS ratings, ensuring you select fixtures and appliances that are both environmentally friendly and cost-effective.

What is the WELS Scheme?

Introduced in 2005, the WELS scheme is an Australian Government initiative designed to reduce water consumption by providing consumers with information about the water efficiency of products at the point of sale. Products such as taps, showers, toilets, urinals, dishwashers, and washing machines are tested and rated under this scheme. The more stars a product has (up to six), the more water-efficient it is.

Decoding the WELS Label

Each WELS label provides:

• Star Rating: Indicates water efficiency; more stars mean higher efficiency.
  

• Water Consumption Rate: Shows the amount of water used, expressed in litres per minute (L/min) for taps and showers, litres per flush for toilets and urinals, and litres per wash for dishwashers and washing machines.
  

• Product Details: Includes the company name, licence number, and model details.

Understanding these labels helps you compare products and choose the most efficient options for your needs.

Star Rating		Indicates the product’s water efficiency - more stars mean greater efficiency. Use this rating to quickly compare the water usage of different products.
Rate of Water Consumption		Displays the product’s water usage, measured by type: L/min for taps, showers, and flow controllers L/wash for dishwashers and washing machines L/flush for toilets and urinals. Use these figures to estimate water consumption.
Registration and Product Details		Shows registration details, including the manufacturer, licence number, and testing standards. For dishwashers and washing machines, it also lists the model and test cycle. Use this to verify ratings and ensure the product suits your needs.

Benefits of Choosing High WELS-Rated Products

• Cost Savings: Lower water consumption translates to reduced water and energy bills.
  

• Environmental Impact: Conserving water helps protect natural resources and reduces strain on water supply systems.
  

• Energy Efficiency: Using less hot water means lower energy consumption, benefiting both the environment and your wallet.
  

WELS Ratings by Product Type

Taps: Standard taps can use 15-18 L/min, while a 6-star rated tap uses 4.5 L/min or less, offering significant water savings without compromising performance.

Showers: Traditional showerheads may use up to 25 L/min. In contrast, a 3-star showerhead uses approximately 9 L/min, while a 4-star model uses about 6-7 L/min, resulting in a reduction of up to 40% in water usage.

Toilets: Older toilets can use up to 12 L per flush. Modern dual-flush toilets with a 4-star rating use an average of 3.5 L per flush, saving approximately 51 L of water per person daily.

Dishwashers & Washing Machines: High-efficiency models use less water per cycle, with some dishwashers using as little as 10L per wash, compared to older models that may use over 20L.

Making Informed Choices

When selecting water-using products:

• Check the WELS Label: Look for the star rating and water consumption details.
  

• Consider Usage Patterns: Choose products that match your household’s water usage needs.
  

• Verify Product Registration: Ensure the product is registered under the WELS scheme by checking the WELS product database

Cook & Bathe’s Commitment to Water Efficiency

At Cook & Bathe, we prioritise sustainability and offer a range of WELS-rated products to help you conserve water without sacrificing performance. Our selection includes:

• High-Efficiency Taps: Designed to provide optimal flow while minimising water usage.
  

• Water-Saving Showerheads: Deliver a satisfying shower experience with reduced water consumption.
  

• Dual-Flush Toilets: Offer flexibility and efficiency, using less water per flush.
  

• Eco-Friendly Appliances: Dishwashers and washing machines that meet high water efficiency standards.
  

By choosing Cook & Bathe, you’re investing in products that support a sustainable future and offer long-term savings.

Final Thoughts

Understanding WELS ratings empowers you to make choices that benefit both the environment and your household budget. By selecting high-efficiency products, you contribute to water conservation efforts and enjoy the advantages of reduced utility bills. Explore Cook & Bathe’s range of WELS-rated products to find the perfect fit for your home.