WaterMark & WELS explained

Two labels show up on Australian bathroom and kitchen fittings more than any others: WaterMark and WELS. They answer different questions - one is about compliance and install safety, the other about water efficiency.

What is WaterMark?

WaterMark is Australia's certification mark for plumbing and drainage products. In short, a WaterMarked product has been assessed against the relevant Australian standard for that product type. For homeowners and renovators, it is the practical signal that a tap, mixer, shower or waste is intended for compliant plumbing installs in Australia.

Always check the product page and packaging for WaterMark evidence on the specific model you are buying. Do not assume every finish variant shares the same paperwork - confirm the SKU you order.

What is WELS?

WELS (Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards) rates how efficiently a product uses water. You will usually see a star rating and a litres-per-minute (or litres-per-wash) figure on eligible tapware, showers and appliances.

  • More stars generally means better water efficiency for that product category.
  • Flow rate (L/min) helps you compare showers and mixers fairly.
  • WELS does not replace WaterMark - a product can be efficient and still need the right plumbing certification for install.

We only publish WELS numbers on product pages when we have verified evidence for that model. If a listing does not show a star rating yet, ask the showroom and we will check the manufacturer data.

How to use both when you buy

  1. Shortlist the finish and style you like from our tapware and shower collections.
  2. Confirm WaterMark / compliance notes on the product page (or ask us to check the SKU).
  3. Compare WELS stars and flow where published - especially for showers and basin mixers.
  4. Match finishes across the room via shop by finish or our finishes buying guide.

Shop with advice at Elenni

Visit 1 Bryants Road, Loganholme (Brisbane south, M1 Exit 28) to see finishes in person, or browse online with Australia-wide delivery. Helpful next steps:

Trade and DIY welcome - bring your plans and we will help you specify confidently.