PUB WELS - Guidebook 1 Oct 2020
PUB WELS - Guidebook 1 Oct 2020
(WELS) GUIDEBOOK
b. All water fittings such as pipes, pipe fittings, valves, taps/mixers, urinal flush
valves/waterless urinal, flush valves for WCs, dual-flush low capacity flushing
cisterns, etc. for use in potable water service installations in Singapore shall comply
with the standards and requirements stipulated by PUB before they can be offered-
for-sale, displayed, advertised for sale/supply in Singapore. Additionally, water
fittings such as taps/mixers, dual-flush low capacity flushing cisterns, urinal flush
valves/ waterless urinal and appliance such as clothes washing machines shall be
labelled under the Mandatory Water Efficiency Labelling Scheme (WELS) before
they can be offered-for-sale, displayed, advertised for sale/supply in Singapore.
d. From 1 Oct 2018, the Mandatory WELS will be extended to include dishwashers for
household use.
iii. Provide consumers with the necessary information on the water efficiency of
the labelled water fitting, appliance, apparatus or product and allow them to
compare it to other similar models in the market places, before deciding on
the purchase.
iv. Clearly differentiate the less water efficient water fittings, appliances,
apparatuses or products from the more water efficient ones.
Page 1 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
vi. Stimulate the introduction of cost-effective and water efficient technologies.
a. CBs who are interested to provide certification services for WELS products shall fulfill
all the criteria and requirements specified by PUB.
c. Notwithstanding the above, PUB may request for additional information or impose
other requirements on the CBs.
Page 2 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
3 Requirements for Registration of Water Fitting, Appliance, Apparatus or Product
under WELS
a. With effect from 1 April 2018, all water fittings, appliances, apparatuses and products
covered under WELS, shall be certified by an Accredited CB for WELS. The workflow
for certification of a water fitting, appliance, apparatus and products by an Accredited
CB for WELS is shown as below.
Start
End
*Stipulated standards of water fittings booklet is downloadable from
PUB’s website at www.pub.gov.sg.
b. Prior to certification by an Accredited CB, the water fitting, appliance, apparatus and
product to be labelled under the WELS shall be tested for compliance with PUB’s
stipulated standards and requirements under Regulation 5 of the Public Utilities (Water
Supply) Regulations. This is to address water contamination, water wastage and
durability/reliability aspects of the product. For PUB’s stipulated standards and
requirements for water fittings, please refer to PUB’s website at www.pub.gov.sg.
Page 3 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
PUB’s Stipulated standards of water fittings booklet is downloadable from PUB’s
website at www.pub.gov.sg.
c. The water fitting, appliance, apparatus and product shall be certified by the Accredited
CB for WELS in accordance with SAC CT 19 for ISO/IEC Type 1a certification scheme
(based on Type Testing);
d. The water efficiency of a water fitting, appliance, apparatus and product shall be
determined by the Accredited CB in accordance with test standard or method as
specified in Part 1 and Part 3 of the Second Schedule of the Public Utilities (Water
Supply) Regulations (http://statutes.agc.gov.sg). A summary of the water efficiency
rating and requirements are shown in Clause 19. [Amended on 4 May 18]
f. The Accredited CB shall register the product details onto PUB’s WELS system at
www.pub.gov.sg/wels within 7 days from date of Certificate of Conformity (CoC).
g. The water efficiency label which will be provided by PUB, will be issued by the
accredited CB for the product. The Accredited CB shall keep track and maintain the
register of successful applicants/products with corresponding registration numbers.
i. PUB reserves the right to amend existing and introduce new legislations including
requirements and guidelines specific to particular water fittings, appliances, apparatus
and products under WELS.
j. With effect 1 Oct 2018, the Mandatory WELS will be extended to include dishwashers
intended for household use. All dishwashers to be offered, displayed or advertised for
sale and supply in Singapore shall be affixed with the water efficiency label. The
stipulated test standard for water consumption test is specified in Annex 1c. The water
efficiency shall be determined by the Accredited CB in accordance with the rating and
requirements shown in Clause 19. [Amended on 4 May 18]
a) With effect from with effect from 1 Jan 2022, the Mandatory WELS will be extended
to include flush valve with water closet (WC) pan. All flush valves with WC pan
shall comply with the following:
i. shall have a flush volume of not more than 4.0 litres per flush; and
ii. shall be of minimum 2-tick or more water efficiency rating under the
MWELS.
Page 4 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
before they can be offered, advertised or displayed for sale and supply in Singapore.
Please refer to Clause 5d for details on water efficiency requirements and ratings, test
methods and determination of water efficiency.
a) With effect from 1 Jan 2022, the Mandatory WELS will be extended to include
commercial equipment such as commercial dishwashers, washer extractors and
high pressure washers. All commercial equipment shall comply with the water
efficiency standards and registered under MWELS before they can be offered,
advertised or displayed for sale and supply in Singapore.
c) Suppliers and manufacturers should ensure that the performance (e.g. food
hygiene for commercial dishwasher, cleaning performance for washer extractor) of
the equipment is not compromised for models which are registered under
Singapore MWELS.
b. The water fitting, appliance, apparatus or product is deemed to comply with the
PUB’s stipulated standards and requirements if it is tested as complying with such
Standards by a testing laboratory accredited by the Singapore Accreditation Council
(SAC) or its Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) partners. With effect from 1
Sep 2014 (date printed on test report), only test reports issued by a testing laboratory
accredited by the SAC or its MRA partners must bear the SAC-SINGLAS mark or
the mark of the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation Mutual
Recognition Arrangement (ILAC-MRA) signatory respectively are accepted. Every
model shall be accompanied with complete and valid test reports showing
compliance with PUB’s stipulated standards and requirements.
Page 5 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
c. Any test report issued by a testing laboratory (notwithstanding that the testing
laboratory is accredited by the SAC or its MRA partners) which does not bear the
SAC-SINGLAS mark or the mark of the ILAC-MRA signatory is not acceptable.
d. Suppliers can adopt the same flow rate test result/report for different models of taps
and mixers without additional testing if they are of similar designs with the same flow
rate performance. Taps and mixers of similar designs with the same flow rate
performance include those which have the same body design but with different
colours, finishing or handle designs that do not affect the hydraulic performance of Added on 22
Jun 21.
the taps and mixers. The colors, finishing and type of handle design shall be
reflected in the Certificate of Conformity (CoC).
e. For list of SAC-SINGLAS accredited test laboratories and its MRA partners, please
visit their website at www.sac-accreditation.gov.sg/.
f. From 1 Aug 2019 (date of test report), a test lab who sub-contracts the testing to Added on 1
Oct 20.
accredited test labs must also issue the accredited test reports which bear SAC-
SINGLAS logo or the logo of the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation
Mutual Recognition Arrangement (ILAC-MRA) respectively to the suppliers.
Suppliers are advised to request a copy of the accredited test reports from their
testing service providers to ensure compliance with PUB’s stipulated standards and
requirements. Existing test reports with no SAC and ILAC-MRA logo from test lab
who subcontracts the testing prior 1 Aug 2019 (date of test report), can continue to
be accepted by PUB, provided that the test(s) was/were conducted by an accredited
test lab.
a. Products which are covered under the Mandatory WELS shall be tested in accordance with
the test methods and meet the requirements as stipulated in Part 1 of Second Schedule of
the Public Utilities (Water Supply) Regulations. Please refer to Annexes 1a and 1b.
Products shall also be tested for compliance to PUB’s stipulated standards and requirements
as specified in Clause 3b.
b. Products which are covered under the Voluntary WELS (i.e. showerheads) shall be tested in
accordance with the test methods and meet the requirements as shown in Annex 1c.
c. Waterless urinal is required to comply with the test method and performance requirements
as specified in Section 6 of ASME A112.19-2016 (Vitreous China Nonwater Urinal). The test
requirements are as follows:
i. Resistance to Stoppage
ii. Tightness Test of Removable Trap
iii. Evaluation Testing for Ammonia
iv. Testing of Urinal with an Optional Drain-Cleansing Action
Page 6 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
d. Flush valves with water closet (WC) pan (sensor-operated and manually-operated types) Added
on 22
Jun 21.
(i) The flush valve with water closet pan shall be tested for performance, public health,
safety and water efficiency in accordance with the standards and requirements as
stipulated in the PUB S&R.
(ii) The flush valve with water closet pan shall be certified and labelled as a whole
complete set.
(iii) The water efficiency and rating requirements for WC flush valve with water closet
pan
(iv) The flush volume shall be not more than 4.0 litres per flush i.e. no fluctuations of
more than 4.0 litres per flush is allowed at any of test pressures of 1.5 bars, 2.0 bars
and 3.0 bars as stipulated in the PUB S&R.
(v) The volume of discharge for determination of water efficiency is the mean of the flush
volumes measured (in litres per flush) with the test method stipulated in PUB S&R at
the dynamic pressures of 1.5 bars, 2.0 bars and 3.0 bars.
(vi) A flush valve with WC pan shall comply with the water efficiency requirement as
specified in Table below and shall be rated accordingly.
2-tick 3-tick
Water efficiency rating
✓✓ ✓✓✓
Volume of discharge (Volwels) for WC
flush valves with WC pan (Litres Per > 3.5 to 4.0 3.5 or less
Flush)
(vii) Flush valve with WC pan with volume of discharge (Vol1.5 or Vol2.0 or Vol3.0) of lower
than 3.5 litres per full flush (i.e. <3.5 litres) when tested at 1.5, 2.0 and 3.0 bars, is
recommended to be tested for WC drainline transportation test as stipulated in
Clause 7.4 of SS 574:Part 1:2012.
(viii) For WC flush valve with manually-operated dual-flush mode (i.e. full and reduced
flush), the volume of discharge for the reduced flush shall not be more than 3.0 litres.
Please also refer to PUB S&R under WC flush valves for the full test requirements.
(ix) The following water efficiency information shall be reported in the Certificate of
Conformity (CoC):
Page 7 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
e. Commercial equipment Added
on 22
Jun 21.
(i) The commercial equipment shall be tested for water consumption only in accordance
with the standards and test methods as stipulated in the Table below.
Commercial
Test standard Test methods & requirements
Equipment
Page 8 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
Commercial
Test standard Test methods & requirements
Equipment
The flow rate for a high pressure washer is measured with the
following test method:
a) the high pressure washer must be connected to —
(i) a water supply system via a bib tap; and
(ii) a stable electricity supply (230±10 V and 50 Hz) with
an ammeter;
b) the water supply must have a delivery flow of at least
20 litres per minute at a dynamic pressure of 3 bars;
High Pressure c) the bib tap must be securely connected to the high pressure
PUB’s Stipulation
Washer (HPW) washer with an inlet hose having an internal diameter of at
least 15 mm;
d) the bib tap must be fully opened;
e) the flow meter and pressure gauge must be connected to
the outlet hose of the high pressure washer;
f) the pressure setting of the high pressure washer must be
set at maximum;
(g) the flow rate, water pressure and electric current must be
measured and recorded.
Washer extractor
The water consumption (Wat rated load) in litres shall be determined in accordance with Clause
9.2 of BS EN 17116-4:2019. The water efficiency (Wper kg) shall be the determined as
shown below.
Water consumption is expressed in litres, and reported to the nearest 0.1 litre.
Commercial dishwasher
The water efficiency per rack (WL/rack) and per plate (WL/plate) shall be determined in
accordance with Clause 7 of IEC 63136:2019. Water consumption is expressed in litres,
and reported to the nearest 0.1 litre.
The water efficiency shall be the mean value of flow rate measured in accordance with the
test method in above Table.
(iii) Commercial equipment as listed in Table below shall comply with the respective water
efficiency standards.
Page 9 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
• Front load
Washer extractor ≤ 8.0 L / kg
• Top load
• Undercounter
Commercial Dishwasher ≤ 2.4 L / rack
• Hood
• For general cleaning
High Pressure Washer ≤ 11.0 L / min
purposes
Definitions:-
a washer extractor (other than for household use) that is —
(i) designed to be loaded or unloaded through an opening in the front of the washer extractor; or
(ii) designed to be loaded or unloaded through an opening in the top of the washer extractor.
a commercial dishwasher (other than for household use) that is of any of the following types:
(i) a hood dishwasher;
(ii) an undercounter dishwasher.
a high pressure washer other than for any of the following uses:
(i) household use;
(ii) steam cleaning or hot water pressure washing; or
(iii) washing equipment or vehicles.
(iv) If there are 2 models or more under the same range that are declared by manufacturer to have the
same specifications (i.e. technical and construction), have the same water consumption and they
are different in colours only, testing on 1 model only is acceptable. The other models under the
same range shall be supported with a copy of accredited reference test report and/or a copy of
manufacturer’s declaration.
(v) The following water efficiency information shall be reported in the Certificate of Conformity (CoC)
for each model:
Washer Extractor
Water Water
Rated Test
consumption consumption
Brand Model Type load report
at rated load per kg
(Arated load) ref. no.
(Wat rated load) (Wper kg)
Commercial dishwasher
Loading
Water
Rack size per Water
Water consum Test
(e.g. cycle consumpti
Brand Model Type consumptio ption report
500x500mm or (e.g. 18 on per
n per cycle per ref. no.
400x400mm) or 10 rack
plate
plates)
a. The registered supplier must be a Singapore-based company registered with the Updated as at
1 Oct 20.
Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) in Singapore. All foreign
companies (i.e. overseas suppliers) not registered with ACRA shall appoint a
Singapore-based agent or representative company registered with ACRA to do the
Page 10 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
application and to follow up on queries/complaints and monitor the products supplied
by them.
b. Accredited CB shall ensure that every model submitted to them for certification shall
contain the information/documents as listed in Table 1 below.
Table 1
1.Registered Supplier information
Date of application
Name of Registered Supplier (based on ACRA records).
Office address
Unique Entity Number (UEN) of the registered supplier issued by the ACRA
Name and title (designation) of the person appointed by the supplier to be in charge of
submission of application to the Accredited CB.
2.
Technical File of Product
Technical File containing:
-Complete and valid test reports in full colour. Test reports include accredited test reports Updated as
at 1 Oct 20.
of testing which the test lab has subcontracted to accredited test labs. .
-Complete checklist of Tests Reports and Flow Rates
-Drawings and list of parts/material used in the fitting (eg. inlet of flush valve of LCFC,
cartridge model no., etc.)
-Manufacturer’s declaration letter if the parts/materials/mechanisms used are the same
-Letter of Authorisation to use test reports
-Information on manufacturer (i.e. company name, address, factory that produce or Updated as
manufacture the product.) Manufacturer’s information, if stated in the test reports, are also at 1 Oct 20.
.
acceptable. If manufacturer’s information is not stated in the test reports, then CB should
use the manufacturer’s information provided by supplier in CB’s application form.
3.
Product information
Type of product
Brand
Model no.
• - Flowrate (applicable for taps/mixers and showerheads) •
• - Flow timing duration (applicable for mechanical and sensor self-closing delayed-action
taps)
• - Flush volume (applicable for dual-flush low capacity flushing cisterns and urinal flush
valves/waterless urinals)
• - Water Consumption (applicable for clothes washing machines)
Water Efficiency Rating (refer to Table 2 for rating requirements)
WELS Registration No. (refer to Annex 3a. Registration no. will be issued by PUB)
WELS Registration Date
Date of Certificate of Conformity (CoC)
Clear and colour photograph showing the side / front elevation view of the product.
Page 11 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
4.
Other documents to be attached
ACRA bizfile of registered supplier (only if there are changes after first submission)
WELS label (Upon successful and complete submission by the accredited CB to PUB, the
label will be provided to the CB. The accredited CB shall then issue the label provided by
PUB to the supplier within 7 working days. Hence, CB shall keep in it records a copy of
the label and proof of issuance of label to the supplier.)
Certificate of Conformity (CoC) printed in full size and colour
Colour photo of the product
Declaration of wash mode for normally-soiled clothes (for clothes washing
machines).
The programme selected on the test washing machine and any associated settings shall
be in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions for the programme recommended in
the product literature for a normally soiled load at rated load capacity. The programme
selected on the test washing machine (with any associated settings) shall be reported in
the test reports. The selected programme shall be indicated along with the water
consumption figures on the Water Efficiency Label. The supplier is required to show proof
of programme recommendation in either Product Literature or Instruction Manual or User
Manual when registering for water efficiency labelling. Alternatively, supplier can also
submit its company letterhead in original copy to declare the programme recommended
for normally soiled clothes. The registered washing machine shall be accompanied with
Product Literature or Instruction Manual or Supplier’s declaration in original company
letterhead, when deliver to the customer for customer’s information and awareness.
5.
Information on Accredited CB
Name of Accredited CB
Address of Accredited CB
Unique Entity Number (UEN) of the Accredited CB issued by the ACRA
Name of Reviewer / Person making certification decision
Name of Person who signed the CoC Updated as
at 1 Oct 20.
Designation
Office No.
Mobile No.
6.
Modification of registered product. Please read Clause 14.
Copy of Test reports in full colour
Manufacturer’s declaration, if any.
Updated checklist of test reports and flow rate
Previous and New WELS Rating / Water Consumption / Volume of discharge
New Certificate of Conformity (CoC)
Update photo of the product (in colour)
c. The list in the above Table is not exhaustive. PUB may require any other information
to be kept and maintained by the accredited CB as and when it deems necessary.
Page 13 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
7 Issuance of Certificate of Conformity by Accredited CB for WELS
c. Every water efficiency label issued by accredited CB shall be for one model only.
d. The Reviewer of test reports and the person making certification decision/person Updated
who signed on the CoC shall not be the same person. Both shall meet the criteria as at 1 Oct
20.
specified in CT19 SAC Criteria for Certification Bodies (Water Efficiency Labelling
Scheme).
e. The brand and all specific clauses of the standards shall be reflected in the main
page of CoC;
f. Every CoC shall only cover 1 brand and product(s) which are under the same
stipulated product standard. E.g. Any product or combination of types of taps/mixers
from 1(a) to (l) under BS EN 200 in Annex 1A of WELS Guidebook.
g. More than 1 product type under the same brand and product standard may be
certified under the same CoC provided that any of the integral components for
example ceramic cartridge or body material of tap/mixer is the same.
h. All reference test reports, if any, shall be clearly reflected in the Appendix of the CoC
for better traceability of records for all models covered in the CoC.
b. If the registered supplier has previously sought certification with a CB but failed in
its certification attempt, he is required to submit the latest report of the outcome of
his application from the previous CB to the new CB for their information and
highlighted any modifications made to the product to be certified by the new CB.
c. However, if the registered supplier declares that he has yet to seek certification with
any CB, it shall be incumbent upon the CB that they shall take due diligent measures
such as:
i) confirming the status of the registered supplier from the directory of certified
and failure products maintained by the other accredited CBs;
or
ii) subjecting the registered supplier into making a declaration of their status at
the point of application.
Page 14 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
d. If the CB subsequently finds out that the registered supplier has earlier approached
a CB but failed in its certification attempt, the CB shall require the registered supplier
to:
and
e. If the registered supplier fails to do item (d), the CB shall reject the registered
supplier’s application for certification of this product.
f. All CBs shall keep track and maintain the register of both successful and rejected
products.
a. The water efficiency label will be provided by PUB to the accredited CB be in .pdf
format. The accredited CB shall then issue the label provided by PUB to the
supplier within 7 working days and shall keep in its records the proof of issuance
of label to the supplier. Please refer to Annex 3f for Restrictions relating to Water
Efficiency Label.
b. The water efficiency label will only be provided by PUB if the model has been
certified by the accredited CB in accordance with SAC CT 19 for ISO/IEC Type 1a
certification scheme (based on Type Testing) and all information and documents
have been successfully and completely submitted by the accredited CB.
c. The water efficiency label shall be in accordance with Part 2 of Second Schedule
of the Public Utilities (Water Supply) Regulations. All information provided by the
accredited CB on the water efficiency label must be correct, complete and valid.
a. Accredited CB shall register the product and submit the correct, complete and valid
product information, Certificate of Conformity (CoC), Technical File and other
documents required by PUB for the model onto PUB’s WELS system within 7 days
from the date of issue of CoC at www.pub.gov.sg/wels. The process is shown in
Annex 5.
c. Notwithstanding the above, PUB may request for additional information and/or
documents from the accredited CB or supplier.
Page 16 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
THE WATER EFFICIENCY LABEL
11. Design of Label
a. The designs of the labels for the Mandatory WELS are specified in Part 2 of Second
Schedule of the Public Utilities (Water Supply) Regulations.
b. The designs of the labels for different tick ratings for different products are given in
Annexes 3b, 3c and 3d.
a. The water efficiency label shall be affixed to each water fitting, appliance, apparatus
or product model displayed for sale or supply. The water efficiency label shall also
be fixed to each water fitting, appliance, apparatus or product model or on its
packaging at the point of sale or supply or offer for sale or supply. The label shall
be fixed such that it is prominent to let consumers view and compare with ease. The
markings and information on the label shall not be removed, defaced or obscured in
any manner that may confuse and/or mislead the consumer.
b. The water efficiency label shall not be defaced, obstructed, removed, misused,
forged, falsified or altered.
13. Use of the Water Efficiency Label in Advertisements and Publicity Materials
a. The water efficiency label shall be used only for the registered models as published
in PUB’s website.
d. Where it is not practicable to display in the advertisement the water efficiency label
for each and every water fitting, appliance, apparatus or product model featured as
stated in 12(b), all information contained in the Water Efficiency Label shall be
stated in the advertisement.
e. The use of the water efficiency label in advertisements and publicity materials shall
be in accordance with Regulations 40AB and 40AD of the Public Utilities (Water
Supply) Regulations. Please refer to Annexes 3e and 3f for extracted Clauses of
40AB and 40AD.
Page 17 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
f. Examples of display of 4 essential water efficiency label information for printed Added on
1 Oct 20..
advertisements is in Annexes 6a and 6b.
a. For a modification affecting the water efficiency of the registered water fitting, the
registered supplier must separately register the water fitting under Regulation 40AE
(3). Re-registration of the model is required. This means the modified registered
product is required to be re-certified by an Accredited CB. The Accredited CB shall
submit to PUB via WELS website at www.pub.gov.sg/wels for the re-registration.
e.g. upgrade from 1-tick to 2-tick where there is no change in product except for
change of flow regulator. The 2-tick model replaces the 1-tick model and new WELS
registration no. will be issued. The 1-tick model will be removed from the WELS
register.
b. For a modification not affecting the water efficiency of the registered water fitting,
the registered supplier must notify PUB in writing of the modification and gives PUB
the particulars of the modification required by PUB. The registered supplier is to
approach the SAC-accredited test laboratory or its MRA partners with the supporting
documents to make the administrative changes in the test report. The registered
supplier would then notify PUB of the modifications and submit supporting
documents/revised test reports. No re-registration of the model is required.
e.g. change of brand name, model no. etc. where there is no change in product
itself.
a. When Supplier A (i.e. existing supplier) or B (new supplier taking over) notifies PUB
on change of distributorship of the registered products, the following documents are
required to be submitted to PUB:
that the distributorship for sale and supply of [brand / models] in Singapore has
been transferred to [Supplier B] effective from [date]. The letter shall include or
be accompanied with a list of the registered WELS models and the corresponding
water efficiency registration no. given earlier to [Supplier A];
AND
Page 18 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
2) A Company Letter of Acceptance from [Supplier B] to take over as distributor
for the sale and supply of [brand and list of WELS registered models with
corresponding WELS labels] in Singapore from [Supplier A] effective from [date].
a. PUB may revoke or withdraw any registration for any contraventions under
Regulation 40AF of the Public Utilities (Water Supply) Regulations. The workflows
of withdrawal and revocation of WELS products are in Annexes 4a and 4b.
a. PUB conducts regular spot checks at suppliers’ showrooms and retailers. PUB will
not hesitate to take action against any person for contraventions to the Public
Utilities (Water Supply) Regulations.
a. The records of every registered model and its supporting documents shall be kept
and maintained by the Accredited CB for at least 10 years.
b. The registered supplier shall declare to PUB upon PUB’s request, in writing, for
every model registered whether the model is still being supplied in Singapore.
The water efficiency rating and requirements for water fittings and appliance are shown
in Tables 2, 3 and 4 below.
Table 2
Mandatory WELS
Updated
Water Efficiency
2-tick ✓✓ 3-tick ✓✓✓ as at 1 Oct
Rating
20.
Type of fitting Flow Rate (litres/min)
Shower Taps & Mixers > 5 to 7 5 or less
Basin Taps & Mixers > 2 to 4 2 or less
Sink/Bib Taps &
> 4 to 6 4 or less
Mixers
Flush volume (litres per flush)
Flushing Cisterns > 3.5 to 4.0 (full flush) 3.5 or less (full flush)
> 2.5 to 3 (reduced flush) 2.5 or less (reduced flush)
Urinal Flush Valve &
Waterless Urinals > 0.5 to 1 0.5 or less
Page 19 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
Mandatory WELS
Updated
Water Efficiency
2-tick ✓✓ 3-tick ✓✓✓ as at 1 Oct
Rating 20.
Flush valves with WC Added on 22
Jun 21.
pan (Litres Per Flush)
>3.5 to 4.0 3.5 or less
-effective from 1 Jan
2022
With effect from 1 Apr 2019, all taps and mixers (basin, sink, bib and shower), dual-flush low capacity flushing
cisterns and urinal flush valves/waterless urinals allowed for sale and supply in Singapore shall be of minimum 2-
tick or more rating under the MWELS. 1-tick water fittings are no longer allowed for sale and supply in Singapore
from 1 Apr 2019 onwards. Refer to Annex 1b for the revised clauses on water efficiency ratings and requirements.
Table 3
Voluntary WELS
Water Efficiency
1-tick ✓ 2-tick ✓✓ 3-tick ✓✓✓
Rating
Type of fitting Flow Rate (litres/min)
Showerheads > 7 to 9 > 5 to 7 5 or less
With effect from 1 Apr 2020, it is recommended that all new and existing 3-tick showerheads under VWELS to Added on 1
be tested for Spray Force test and Spray Coverage test under AS 3662:2013. See Remarks in Table 5 and Oct 20.
Annex 1c.
Table 4
Mandatory WELS
Water Efficiency Rating 1-tick 2-tick 3-tick 4-tick
✓ ✓✓ ✓✓✓ ✓✓✓
Products Water consumption (litres per kg)
Clothes Washing Machines for
NA > 9 to 12 > 6 to 9 6 or less
household use (Per Washload)
Table 4A
Water Efficiency Requirements Added on
Commercial Equipment Types covered under MWELS 22 Jun 21.
-effective from 1 Jan 2022
• Front load
Washer extractor ≤ 8.0 L / kg
• Top load
• Undercounter
Dishwasher ≤ 2.4 L / rack
• Hood
• For general cleaning
High Pressure Washer ≤ 11.0 L / min
purposes
Page 20 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
The water fittings and appliances covered under WELS are shown in Table 5 below.
Table 5
Types of Covered Covered Requirements
products under under
MWELS VWELS
Basin Taps and Yes - a) Same flow rate test report is acceptable if the new
Mixers model and tested model have the same body design
Sink Taps and Yes - but different in;
Mixers – finishing / colours; or
Bib Taps and Yes - – handle design.
Mixers and that they do not affect the performance of the
tested model. Test report must indicate the
differences between the new and tested model nos.
must be different.
Thermostatic Yes - From 1 Apr 2020, thermostatic mixers shall be tested to Updated as
mixer for basin, Section 13.2 of BS EN 1111:2017. BS EN 1287:1998 and at 1 Oct 20.
sink, bib or BS EN 1111:1999 will no longer be acceptable from 1 Apr
shower 2020.
Dual Flush Low Yes - For concealed cistern type:
Capacity Flushing
Cisterns (Dual a) Same test report is acceptable if the new model and
Flush LCFCs) tested model have different;
b) Frame (with or without frame); or
c) Height of frame; or
d) Face plate design.
e) Differences must be indicated in test reports.
f) Models nos. of new and tested products must be
different.
Urinal Flush Yes - a) Same test report is acceptable if the new model and
Valves tested model have different face place design.
b) Differences between new and tested model must be
indicated in test reports.
c) Models nos. of new and tested products must be
different.
d) For flush volume of less than 0.5 litres per flush, urinal
flush valves must be coupled together with urinal bowl
for Dye test.
Page 21 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
Types of Covered Covered Requirements
products under under
MWELS VWELS
intended for
household use
Showerheads - Yes -
Bath/shower taps Yes - a) MWELS is only applicable to the shower flow rates (i.e.
and mixers at shower outlets). Not applicable to the bath flow rate
(exposed type) for filling of bathtubs.
b) The flow rates shall be taken at the shower outlets (and
& not at the showerheads). Water efficiency is not
applicable to the flow rate from bath outlet.
Shower taps and c) Same flow rate test report is acceptable if the new
mixers (exposed model and tested model have the same body design
type) but different in;
i. finishing / colours; or
ii. handle design.
iii. face plate design.
and that they do not affect the performance of the
tested model. Test report much indicate the
differences and new and tested model nos. must be
different.
d) Differences must be indicated in test reports.
e) Models nos. of new and tested products must be
different.
f) If there are 2 flow rate results recorded for a particular
fitting e.g. 2-way bib tap, exposed shower mixer with
more than 1 outlet, the highest average flow rate
results will be used for water efficiency.
Bidet taps and No - -
mixers
Concealed No - With effect from 1 Apr 2019, it is recommended that such Added on 1
shower taps and taps and mixers to be installed with at least 2-tick (i.e. not Oct 20.
mixers more than 7 litres/min) showerheads under Voluntary
WELS.
Table 6 below sets out the actual upper and lower limits for the respective taps and mixers. Added on 1
Oct 20.
Table 6
Water Efficiency
Actual upper limit Actual lower limit
Type of fitting Tick Rating
(litres/min) (litres/min)
(litres/min)
Basin Taps & 2 > 2 to 4 4.5 1.5
Mixers 3 2 or less 2.5 1.5
Added on
2 > 4 to 6 6.5 3.5 1 Oct 20.
Bib Taps
3 4 or less 4.5 3.5
Sink Taps & 2 > 4 to 6 6.5 3.5
Mixers 3 4 or less 4.5 2.5
Shower Taps 2 > 5 to 7 7.5 4.5
& Mixers 3 5 or less 5.5 4.5
Page 22 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
20. Listing of Water Efficient Labelled Models
a. The list of all water fitting, appliance, apparatus and product models that have
been registered under WELS can be viewed at www.pub.gov.sg/wels.
21. Enquiries
Inspectorate Branch
Water Demand Management & Inspectorate Division
Water Supply (Network) Department
PUB
40 Scotts Road, #15-01
Singapore 228231
Tel: 1800-2255 782 (Call PUB-One)
Tel : 65172925 / 65172934 / 65172932 / 68056315 / 68056315 / 68852521
Fax: 67313023
Email: [email protected]
b. All other enquiries on WELS can also be sent to the above address.
Page 23 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
Annex 1a
Extracted from Part 1 of Second Schedule of the Public Utilities (Water Supply)
Regulations
1. A test report for a specified water fitting must contain the results of tests carried out for
the specified water fitting in accordance with the applicable test standard or method, as
follows:
Page 24 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
First column Second column Third column
Specified water fitting Type Applicable test standard or
method
(ii) SS 574: Part 1 (2012), Annex
J –– WC Drainline
Transportation test
(3) Urinal flush valve (a) Urinal flush valve with flush (i) The test method for
volume of 0.5 litres or more determining the flush volume
set out in paragraph 3; and
(b) Urinal flush valve with flush
volume of less than 0.5 litres (ii) Dye Test specified in ––
(A) Clause 8.5 of the ASME
A112.19.2 - 2008/CSA B45.1-
08; or
or
Page 25 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
Taps and mixers
The flow rate for a tap and mixer is the mean of the average flow rates measured in litres per minute
and at the dynamic flow pressures of 1.5 bars, 2.5 bars, 3.5 bars, 4.5 bars and 5 bars.
Page 26 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
Annex 1b
Extracted from Part 3 of Second Schedule of the Public Utilities (Water Supply)
Regulations
PART 3
(b) the highest flow rate of the tap and mixer must not exceed the upper limit of the range of flow rates
within which the flow rate of the tap and mixer falls (under paragraph 2 of Part 2 of this Schedule)
by more than 0.5 litres per minute;
(ii) for a sink tap and mixer with a flow rate falling within the range of flow rates specified
for 2 ticks — must not be lower than 3.5 litres per minute;
(iii) for a basin tap and mixer, with a flow rate falling within the range of flow rates
specified for 2 ticks and 3 ticks — must not be lower than 1.5 litres per minute;
(iv) for a bib tap and mixer with a flow rate falling within the range of flow rates specified
for 2 ticks and 3 ticks — must not be lower than 3.5 litres per minute; and
(v) for a shower tap and mixer with a flow rate falling within the range of flow rates
specified for 2 ticks and 3 ticks — must not be lower than 4.5 litres per minute;
[S 192/2019 wef 01/04/2019]
(d) the tap and mixer must have a flow rate as follows:
(i) for basin tap and mixer, not more than 4 litres per minute;
[S 192/2019 wef 01/04/2019]
(ii) for a sink tap and mixer or bib tap and mixer, not more than 6 litres per minute;
[S 192/2019 wef 01/04/2019]
(iii) for a shower tap and mixer, not more than 7 litres per minute.
[S 192/2019 wef 01/04/2019]
2. Every flushing cistern or flush valve serving a urinal must be of such a design as to use not more than the Updated as
amount of water specified in paragraph 18(1) or (3) of the First Schedule, as the case may be. at 1 Oct 20.
[S 192/2019 wef 01/04/2019]
3. Every clothes washing machine intended for household use must be of such a design as to use
not more than 12 litres of water per kilogram of wash load for the washing programme recommended
by the manufacturer for a normally soiled load at the rated capacity of the washing machine.
4. Every dishwasher intended for household use must be of such a design as to use not more than
1.5 litres of water per place setting for normally soiled tableware at rated dishwasher capacity.
[S 535/2018 wef 01/10/2018]
5. In this Part —
Page 27 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
“flow rate” means the volume of water that flows out of a tap and mixer per minute, as specified in the test
report;
(b) where the test standard used is IEC 60436: 2015, the set of tableware items specified
in Annex A of IEC 60436: 2015.
[S 535/2018 wef 01/10/2018]
Page 28 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
Annex 1c
1. A test report for a specified water fitting must contain the results of tests carried out for
the specified water fitting in accordance with the applicable test standard or method, as
follows:
AS 3662 : 2013 ii. Clause 5.4.1 – App H Spray Force test Updated as
at 1 Oct 20.
iii. Clause 5.4.2 – App I Spray Coverage test.
1. For showerheads, the flow rates shall be measured in accordance with Appendix B of AS/NZS
3662:2013 but at the following dynamic flow pressures: 0.5 bars. 1.0 bar, 1.5 bars, 2.0 bars, 2.5
bars, 3.0 bars, 3.5 bars, 4.5 bars, 5.0 bars and 5.5 bars.
2. The flow rate for a tap and mixer for WELS is the mean of the average flow rates measured in litres
per minute and at the dynamic flow pressures of 1.5 bars, 2.5 bars, 3.5 bars, 4.5 bars and 5 bars.
3. Every showerhead, regardless of the type, must meet the following requirements:
(a) the difference between the highest and lowest flow rates (measured at the dynamic flow
pressures of the showerhead must not exceed 2 litres per minute;
(b) the highest flow rate of the showerhead must not exceed the upper limit of the range of
flow rates within which the flow rate of the showerhead falls by more than 0.5 litres per
minute;
(c) the lowest flow rate of the showerhead must not be lower than the lower limit of the
range of flow rates within which the flow rate of the showerhead falls by more than 0.5
litres per minute;
(d) have a flow rate of not more than 9 litres per minute.
Page 29 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
Annex 2a
CERTIFICATE OF CONFORMITY
Water Efficiency Labelling Scheme [CAB’s Letter Head]
Name of Vendor
Address
For
which has/have complied with the requirements of the Scheme and based on the following:
<Name of CAB> is accredited by the Singapore Accreditation Council for certification in respect of
Product Certification Scheme (ISO/IEC 17065: YYYY and SAC CT : YYYY)
Signature
Designation
<name of CB>
This Certificate is part of a full report and should be read in conjunction with it. This Certificate remains the property of <name of
CB> and shall be returned upon request. The use of this Certificate is subjected to the terms and conditions of the Water
Efficiency Labelling Scheme. The manufacturer is solely responsible for compliance of any product that has the same designation
as the product type-tested. Persons relying on this Certificate should verify its validity by checking <name of CB>‘s website at
<CB website>.
Page 30 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
Annex 2b
APPENDIX
Vendor:
Name of Vendor
Address
Issue Number:
Test
report Test
Test Test
(D) Flowrate ref. no. report
(A) report report
(C) (L/min) / WELS Finishing for reference
Product Water ref. no. ref. for
Model Water Rating Body colour AS/NZS No. for
type (B) shut-off for SS DZR
Consumption material 4020 SS
Brand device 270:YYYY brass
App H: 375:YYYY
YYYY
Signed:
Designation
<Name of CAB>
Amendments or additions to this appendix other than those authorized by <name of CAB> render
the Appendix invalid.
Page 31 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
Annex 3a
WELS LABELS
b) Ticks that indicate the water efficiency rating of the labelled water fitting,
appliance, apparatus or product
c) Water Consumption
e) Brand name
f) Model number
h) Serial number (applicable to Water Efficiency Label for VWELS only). The
format for registration number shall be: 02/YYYY/000000/ZZZ
i. 02 – Fixed Prefix representing “Showerheads”
ii. YYYY – Year of registration
iii. 000000 – running number issue by the system
iv. ZZZ – represent of the certification body that certify the product (will be
issued by PUB)
Page 33 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
Annex 3b
10.5 cm
8.3 cm
Water Efficiency Label for Taps & Mixers, Low Capacity Flushing Cisterns and Urinal
Flush Valves, Water Closet Flush Valves & Waterless Urinals (Mandatory WELS)
Page 34 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
Annex 3c
DESIGN OF WELS LABELS
14 cm
11 cm
Water Efficiency Label for Clothes Washing Machines and Dishwashers for
household use (Mandatory WELS)
Page 35 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
Annex 3d
DESIGN OF WELS LABELS
Page 36 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
Annex 3e
Extracted from the Public Utilities (Water Supply) Regulations
40AB.—(1) A person must not advertise a specified water fitting for supply unless the specified
water fitting is registered under regulation 40AE(3).
(2) Without affecting paragraph (1), the person advertising the specified water fitting —
(a) where the advertisement has any visual element, must ensure the following:
(i) for an advertisement other than a print advertisement —
(A) a Water Efficiency Label is, as far as practicable, displayed in the
advertisement next to the image or description of the specified
water fitting; or
(B) where it is not practicable to comply with sub-paragraph (A), all the
information contained in the Water Efficiency Label is stated in the
advertisement;
(b) must not claim or imply that the specified water fitting is tested, certified, or otherwise
approved by the Government or the Board.
(3) Any person that contravenes paragraph (1) or (2) shall be guilty of an offence.
[S 133/2017 wef 01/04/2017]
=====================
Page 37 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
Annex 3f
40AD.
(1) A person must not affix, or cause to be affixed, a Water Efficiency Label on a specified water fitting
unless ––
(a) the specified water fitting has been registered by the Board;
(b) the person is a registered supplier for the water fitting; and
(c) the Water Efficiency Label was issued to the person by the Board for the registered water fitting.
(2) A registered supplier must, before supplying the registered water fitting in Singapore, affix the Water
Efficiency Label in accordance with the requirements in paragraph (3).
(3) A Water Efficiency Label must be affixed on a registered water fitting in accordance with the following
requirements:
(a) where the Water Efficiency Label is not printed onto the packaging of the registered water
fitting, the Water Efficiency Label must be affixed securely on the registered water fitting or
its packaging;
(b) the place where the Water Efficiency Label is affixed must be conspicuous and unobstructed.
(5) Any person that contravenes paragraph (1), (2) or (4) shall be guilty of an offence.
=====================
Page 38 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
Annex 4a
Workflow of Revocation of Product
N Product
remains in Case
Is product to be PUB’s closed
revoked? website.
PUB follows up with supplier and take enforcement action
Y
against supplier if there is any contravention to Public
Utilities (Water Supply) Regulations.
PUB informs supplier:
-that product will be revoked within 14 days from date of notification.
-reason for revocation.
-to submit undertaking within 14 days from date of notification that he will inform
retailers/distributors on the revocation
Accredited CB PUB
Backend :
3)System sends
3c label to CB.
3b
CB issues label to supplier
within 7 working days from
date label is provided by PUB.
3b – Auto-generated email sent to Accredited CB to download label for their records. Page 41 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
3c –asCB
Updated at 1 is
Octrequired
2020 to issue label to supplier. Please also read Clause 9 of the WELS Guidebook.
Annex 6a
Example of display of 4 essential water efficiency label information for printed advertisements only.
A) Display clear, legible and colour label OR B) Display only 4 essential water efficiency label information for
printed advertisement only
To display the water efficiency label next to the image or description of the Only 4 essential information needs to be displayed without the Added on 14
May 19
product. need for the Water Efficiency Label
2.5 litres/min
Basin Tap & Mixer
ABCD
8888
BST-00/11111/XXX
Page 42 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
Tick Rating: √√, Water consumption: 2.5 litre/min Brand:
ABCD, Model No: 8888, WELS Registration No: BST-
xxx/xxxxx/xxx
Annex 6b
A) Display clear, legible and colour label OR B) Display only 4 essential water efficiency label information
for printed advertisement only
To display the water efficiency label next to the image or description of the Only 4 essential information needs to be displayed without the Added on 14
May 19
product. need for the Water Efficiency Label
Page 43 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020
Tick Rating: √√√, Brand: Samsung, Model No:
WW12K8412OW, WELS Registration No: WM-016/019289
Page 44 of 45
PUB WELS Guidebook
Updated as at 1 Oct 2020