Save Water and Money: Why You Should Switch to WELS-Rated Shower Heads

If you’re looking for a quick and affordable way to improve your home’s water efficiency, upgrading your shower heads is one of the best places to start. Older, non-water-saving shower heads can waste thousands of litres every year — putting pressure on both your water bill and the environment.

By replacing them with WELS-rated water-saving models, you can enjoy excellent water pressure, reduce your utility bills, and meet modern efficiency standards. At Pro-Action Plumbing, we help Melbourne homeowners make this simple switch with big long-term benefits.

What Is a WELS-Rated Shower Head?

WELS stands for Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards — Australia’s national water-saving certification program. All shower heads sold in Australia must now carry a WELS rating, measured in stars and litres per minute (L/min).

• 3-star shower heads typically use 6–9 L/min
  
• 4-star or higher can use as little as 5 L/min
  
• Older shower heads often use 12–18 L/min, more than double the water of new models
  
  

The WELS label tells you how much water the fitting uses and helps you choose the right product to balance performance and savings.

The Benefits of Switching to Water-Saving Shower Heads

Lower Water Bills

Reducing your shower’s flow rate by even a few litres per minute can save hundreds of dollars per year for the average household — especially with multiple family members showering daily.

Reduced Energy Use

Using less hot water means less energy used to heat it. This can significantly reduce your gas or electricity bills, particularly if you have a storage hot water system.

Environmental Impact

Saving water helps conserve Australia’s limited natural resources, particularly during drought periods and in water-restricted areas.

Great Performance with Smart Design

Modern WELS-rated shower heads are designed to maintain strong water pressure while using less water. They use air infusion, flow restrictors, and smart spray patterns for a satisfying shower experience.

Compliance and Property Value

If you’re renting, renovating, or selling, having water-efficient fixtures can help you meet legal requirements and improve your property’s market appeal.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Shower Head

• Your shower head is over 10 years old
  
• It doesn’t have a WELS rating
  
• You notice inconsistent pressure or flow
  
• It drips or leaks, even when turned off
  
• You’re getting unusually high water or energy bills
  
  

If you tick any of these boxes, it’s likely time for an upgrade.

What to Expect From a Pro-Action Plumbing Shower Head Upgrade

We offer:

• On-site inspection to assess your current fixtures and pressure
  
• Supply and installation of WELS-rated shower heads to match your style and needs
  
• Removal and disposal of old fittings
  
• Advice on further water-saving options, like efficient taps or dual-flush toilets
  
  

We can usually replace a shower head in under 30 minutes per bathroom, with minimal disruption to your home.

Upgrade Today — It’s a Small Change With Big Impact

Swapping out non-efficient shower heads is one of the easiest and most affordable plumbing upgrades you can make — and it pays for itself quickly in water and energy savings.

At Pro-Action Plumbing, we’ve helped homeowners across Melbourne’s eastern suburbs — including Ringwood, Croydon, Doncaster, and Lilydale — cut water waste and improve everyday comfort.

Ready to save water and money? Contact us today to book your WELS-rated shower head replacement or water-saving plumbing audit.