What is WELS and WaterMark?

WELS stands for the Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards scheme, an Australian government initiative designed to help consumers reduce water usage. Products such as taps, showers, toilets, and washing machines are given a star rating based on how much water they use. The more stars, the more water-efficient the product. WELS labels allow you to compare products easily and choose options that help lower water bills while conserving one of Australia’s most valuable resources.

The WELS star rating system typically ranges from 1 to 6 stars, with higher ratings indicating greater water efficiency. Alongside the star rating, the label also shows the product’s water consumption rate, such as litres per minute or litres per flush. This combination gives a clear, measurable way to compare products beyond appearance or price, helping homeowners balance performance, sustainability, and long-term cost savings.

Choosing products with both WELS and WaterMark certification ensures your renovation is compliant, efficient, and future-proof. Water-efficient fixtures can significantly reduce household water consumption and ongoing costs, while WaterMark certification gives peace of mind that your products are safe, reliable, and approved for installation by licensed plumbers. Together, these certifications help create smarter, more sustainable Australian homes.