WELS on Flow Controllers is a voluntary scheme. It adopts a grading type labelling system.
The flow controllers applying for registration under the scheme will be tested to confirm its compliance with the performance requirements specified in the scheme. These include endurance, watertightness and safe for potable water use. In addition, the flow controller will be produced/manufactured according to a recognised international quality system (such as ISO 9001 or equivalent).
Under this Scheme, participating flow controllers are classified into 2 categories in accordance with Table 1:
Table 1: Classification of Flow Controllers
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Flow Controllers for Water Taps |
| 2 | Flow Controllers for Showers for Bathing |
The water efficiencies of the flow controllers are rated to different grades according to their categories and nominal flow rates as shown in Tables 2 and 3. Grade 1 is the most water efficient whereas grade 4 is the least water efficient.:
Table 2: Conversion of Nominal Flow Rates to Water Efficiency Grades for Flow Controllers for Water Taps (Category 1)
| Nominal Flow Rate of Category 1 Flow Controllers: ƒ(litres/minute) |
Water Efficiency Grade | Symbolic Presentation on the Water Efficiency Label |
|---|---|---|
| ƒ ≦ 5.0 | Grade 1 | 1 water droplet  |
| 5.0 < ƒ ≦ 7.0 | Grade 2 | 2 water droplets |
| 7.0 < ƒ ≦ 9.0 | Grade 3 | 3 water droplets |
| ƒ > 9.0 | Grade 4 | 4 water droplets |
Table 3: Conversion of Nominal Flow Rates to Water Efficiency Grades for Flow Controllers for Showers for Bathing (Category 2)
| Nominal Flow Rate of Category 2 Flow Controllers: ƒ(litres/minute) |
Water Efficiency Grade | Symbolic Presentation on the Water Efficiency Label |
|---|---|---|
| ƒ ≦ 9.0 | Grade 1 | 1 water droplet |
| 9.0 < ƒ ≦ 12.0 | Grade 2 | 2 water droplets |
| 12.0 < ƒ ≦ 16.0 | Grade 3 | 3 water droplets |
| ƒ > 16.0 | Grade 4 | 4 water droplets |
Notes:
The testing methodology is described in Annex 1 of the scheme document with reference to testing conditions and requirements specified in Australian/New Zealand Standard No. AS 5200.037.2:2008 - Technical Specification for Plumbing and Drainage Products: Flow controllers - For use in heated or cold water plumbing systems or other equivalent international standards approved by the Department. Details of the testing methodology and technical standard are shown in Annex I of the scheme document.
Registration to the scheme commences on 7 August 2014. No application fee will be charged.
WELS on Flow Controllers is detailed in its scheme document.
Any enquiry on the Scheme can be referred to the Water Supplies Department Enquiry Hotline or by fax or by e-mail.
