W  Water Supplies Department   
 
48/F., Immigration Tower,  
7 Gloucester Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong  
Homepage: http://www.wsd.gov.hk   
The Hong Kong Voluntary Water Efficiency 
Labelling Scheme on  
 
 
Showers for Bathing  
 
 
May 2009  
  
 Page 1 of 15 CONTENTS  
Section  Title  Page  
1. Purpose  2 
2. Background  2 
3. Scope  3 
4. Definitions  3 
5. Testing  Methodology and Standard  4 
6. Water Efficiency Grading  5 
7. Water Efficiency Label 6 
8. Testing Laboratories and Accreditation Bodies  7 
9. Application for Registration  8 
10. Legal Provisions  11 
11. Compliance Monitoring and Inspection  12 
12. Complaints and Appeal 14 
13. Maintenance of Scheme  15 
 
Annexes   
1 Testing Guidelines for Showers for Bathing  
2 Water Efficiency Label   
3 Proforma Letter of Application  
4 Information to be submitted to the Water Supp lies Department  
5 Flow Chart for Registration  
 
 
     
 Page 2 of 15 1. Purpose  
 
 This document is intended to give a detailed description on the Hong Kong 
Voluntary Water  Efficiency Labelling Scheme  (WELS) on Showers for 
Bathing.  
 
 
2. Background  
 
2.1 The voluntary WELS is one of the water conservation initiative s that the 
Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) has 
adopted.  The WELS would cover some common types of plumbing fixtures 
and water-consuming appliances.  Product participating in the WELS will 
incorporate a water efficiency label that serves to inform consumers of its  
water consumption level and efficiency  rating.  Consumers should then be 
able to take these factors into account in making their purchasing decision.  
 
2.2 In overseas, the concept of WELS  is in different stages of development and 
implemented in several forms.  In some  countries, it is a compulsory 
requirement to provide water efficiency labels for certain kinds of plumbing 
fixtures and appliances before they can be put on sale in the market.  For 
others, the WELS is on a voluntary  basis so as to allow a lead time for the 
market to transform towards more water efficient products.  The 
implementation of WELS in Hong K ong adopts the latter approach and aims 
to achieve the following: 
 
(a) To provide the consumers with the information on the levels of water 
consumption and efficiency ratings of plumbing fixtures and 
water -consuming appliances ; 
(b) To facilitate consumers to select water efficient plumbing fixtures and 
water -consuming appliances;  
(c) To promote public awareness on water conservation and efficiency issues; and  
(d) To achieve actual water saving.  
 
2.3 The voluntary WELS in Hong Kong will be implemented in phases for 
different groups of plumbing fixtures and water-consuming appliances.  The 
first group of products for implementation of the WELS is showers for 
bathing (hereinafter referred to as showers).   
 Page 3 of 15  
 
3. Scope 
 
3.1 The Scheme will apply to the manufacturers, importers , or other related 
parties participating in the Scheme.  
 
3.2 The Scheme registration will commence from (date to be advised)  and will 
expire on 31 December 2011  when re-registration is necessary . 
 
3.3 The Scheme only  covers new showers imported to or manufactured in Hong 
Kong but does not cover second-hand products, products already in existing 
use, under trans-shipment or manufactured for export, etc.  
 3.4 The Scheme is operated as a ‘ Grading Type’ labelling system. U nder this 
Scheme , participating showers will be rated to different grades according to 
their nominal flow rates provided that they have met the performance 
requirement s specified in the Scheme.  
 3.5 The provisions of this Scheme shall apply to the showers listed below:  
 
(a) showerheads installed to fixed arms/concealed pipes in the wall or ceiling;  
(b) showerheads installed to pivotal arms; and  
(c) hand-held showers.  
 
 
4. Definitions  
 
 Unless otherwise specified, the following definitions shall apply throughout 
this document:  
 
Department  means the Water  Supplies  Department, the Government of  
HKSAR.  
  
shower  means a showerhead through which water is intended  to flow 
to form a spray for bathing purposes, which may include a 
fixed or pivot arm, a flexible hose (with or without a flow 
controller), tap top assemblies, or other components.  
   
 Page 4 of 15 Director  means the Director of the Water Supplies Department , the 
Government of HKSAR . 
  
Government  means the Government of H KSAR .  
  
ISO means  the International Organization for Standardization . 
  
IEC means the International Electrotechnical Commission.  
  
Inspecting 
Officer  means the officer authorized by the Directo r to carry out 
inspection on showers.  
  
Label means the water efficiency label (both full version and 
simplified version) as described in Section 7 of this document.  
  
participant  means a manufacturer, an importer or other related party  of 
the shower registered in the Scheme.  
  
recognized 
laboratory  means a laboratory that complies with the requirements as 
stated in Section 8 of this document and is acceptable to the 
Department for carrying out tests (including re-tests) and 
issuing test reports on showers for bathing.  
  
Scheme  means the Hong Kong V oluntary Water Efficiency Labelling 
Scheme on  Showers for Bathing.  
 
 
5. Testing Methodology and Standard  
 
 General  
5.1 The testing methodology is described in Annex 1 with reference to the testing 
conditions and requirements specified in the Australian/New Zealand 
Standard No. AS/NZS 3662:2005 – Performance of Showers for Bathing with 
amendment no. 1 .  
 
 Flow Rate Test 
5.2 The nominal flow rates of the showers shall be determined in accordance with Annex 1.  The water efficiencies of the showers will be rated to different 
grades according to the nominal flow rate test results subject to the 
compliance with other performance requirements mentioned in Section 5.3 below.    
 Page 5 of 15  
 Other Performance Requirements  
5.3 The showers shall also be tested for conformity with the performance 
requirements as shown in Table 1.  
 
 Table 1: Performance Requirements for Showers  
 
Performance Property  Performance Requirements  
Mean spray spread angle  
 The mean spray spread angle shall be between 
0o and 8o. 
Temperature drop  
 The temperature drop shall not exceed 3oC. 
Endurance of the flow 
controller  
(if incorporated in a 
shower or being a 
component of a shower)  The flow rate which is re -measured after the 
endurance test of the flow controller shall be 
within ±1 litre/min of the nominal flow rate, as 
determined in the flow rate test.  
  
 Quality Requirement  
5.4 The showers shall be designed and manufactured under a design and 
production system operating according to a recognized international quality 
system (such as ISO 9001).   
 
6. Water Efficiency Grading    
 
6.1 The water efficiencies of the showers are rated to different grades according 
to their nominal flow rates as shown in Table 2. 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 
 
Nominal Flow Rate :  
f (litre/minute)  Water Efficiency 
Grade  Symbolic Presentation on 
the Water Efficiency Label  
 
f ≤ 9.0  
Grade 1   
1 water droplet  
 
 
9.0 < f ≤ 12.0  
  
Grade 2   
2 water droplets   
 Page 6 of 15 Nominal Flow Rate :  
f (litre/minute)  Water Efficiency 
Grade  Symbolic Presentation on 
the Water Efficiency Label  
 
12.0 < f ≤ 16.0  
  
Grade 3   
3 water droplets  
 
f > 16.0  
  
Grade 4   
4 water droplets  
 
6.2 If the tested shower cannot fulfil the performance requirements specified in 
Section 5.3 of this Scheme, application for registration under the Scheme will not be accepted.  
  
 
 
7. Water Efficiency Label 
 
Label Versions and Location  
7.1 The Label should be  self-adhesive.  There are two versions of the Label - 
full and simplified versions.  It is a compulsory  requirement  for the 
participant to affix the full version Label to his/her registered shower or its 
packing at a prominent location.  The participant should also ensure that the 
registered shower shall be displayed for sale with the full version Label.   
The simplified version Label is designed to facilitate the participant to affix it 
to the shower in case the full version Label is too large to do so.  However, 
the affixation of the simplified version Label to the shower is optional . 
  
 Colour Scheme and Dimensions  
7.2 The Label should be printed on white-coloured self -adhesive sheet material 
and should  have dimensions as shown in Annex 2. It should be printed in 
English and in Chinese.  The s oft cop y of the Label can be obtained from the 
Department.  
 
 Paper Quality  
7.3 The paper used for the Label should be durable and possess good wear and 
tear characteristics.  It should stick tightly on the shower or its packing. 
  
 
 
  
 Page 7 of 15  Information on the Label  
7.4 The information that appears on the Label shall accord with the Label format 
as indicated in Annex 2 and shall tally with the information listed on the 
registration certificate issued by the Department. 
 
 
8. Testing Laboratories and Accreditation Bodies  
 
8.1 The testing is to be carried out either by an independent testing laboratory  or 
by the manufacturers or the importers or other related parties themselves at 
their own testing laboratories.  The Department will accept the results and 
certificates issued by the testing laboratories  which fulfil one of the criteria as 
specified in Sections 8.2, 8.3 or 8.4 . 
 8.2 The laboratory is accredited by the Hong Kong Accreditation Service (HKAS) 
for carrying out the tests stipulated in th is Scheme under the Hong Kong 
Laboratory Accreditation Scheme (HOKLAS) or a scheme with which the 
HKAS has concluded a mutual recogniti on agreement
#
 ; and the results are 
issued in a test report or certificate bearing the accreditation mark.  
8.3 An in-house laboratory fulfilling the criteria listed below:-   
(a)  Self-declaration by the manufacturer or importer or other related parties 
that the operations of their in-house laboratory follow the requirements 
of ISO/IEC 17025; and  
(b) The manufacturer is currently operating according to a recognized 
international quality system (such as ISO 9001); and  
(c) The manufacturer ’s or importer ’s or other related parties’  in-house 
                                                 
#  HKAS has concluded mutual recognition  arrangements with six ty-four overseas accr editation 
bodies for testing laboratory accreditation, namely, UKAS  of the United Kingdom, NATA  of 
Australia, A2LA, ACLASS , ASCLD/LAB, NVLAP , L-A-B, PJLA  and IAS of the United States,  
IANZ  of New Zealand, RvA of Netherlands, SAC of Singapore, BM WA of Austr ia, BEL AC of 
Belgium, DANAK of Denmark, FINAS  of Finland, COFRAC of France, DACH , DAP  and DATech 
in TGA GmbH  of Germany, I NAB of Ireland, SINAL of Italy , NA of Norway, ENAC of Spain, 
SWEDAC of Sweden, SAS of Switzerland,  CNAS  of People’ s Republic of China , TAF of the 
Chinese Taipei , CAI of Czech Republic, CGCRE/INMETRO  of Brazil,  IAJapan , JAB and VLAC of 
Japan, KOLAS  of Korea, SANAS  of South Africa, SCC and CALA of Canada, NABL  of India, BoA  
of Viet Nam, LA  of Lithuania, SNAS  of Slovakia, KAN  of Indonesia,  ISRAC of Israel, DSM  of 
Malaysia; NSC-ONAC, BLQS -DMSc and BLA- DSS of Thailand, OAA of Argentina,  ONARC  of 
Cuba, NLAB of Egypt, EAK of Estonia, ESYD  of Greece, LATAK  of Latvia, PCA of Poland, SA  of 
Slovenia, TUNAC  of Tunisia, TURKAK of Turkey,  NAB- MALTA  of Malta, ema of Mexico, ECA of 
Costa Rica, OGA  of Guatemala, RENAR of Romania, IPAC  of Portugal , PAO  of the Philippines,  etc.  
The list of mutual recognition arrangement partners may change from time to time and the up- to-date 
list is available from the HKA S website of http://www.itc.gov.hk/en  
/quality/hkas/hoklas/agreement.htm .   Partners of these arrangements recognise the accreditations 
granted by one another as equivalent.   
 Page 8 of 15 laboratory has been successful in carrying out tests on showers and 
where these tests have  been evaluated and certified by internationally 
recognised third party certification organisations.  
 
8.4 A laboratory which achieves HOKLAS accreditation (or is accredited by a 
scheme with which HKAS has concluded a mutual recognition agreement) 
for laboratory testing of plumbing fixtures and water-consuming appliances  
other than the tests stipulated in the Scheme,  and the laboratory can 
demonstrate capability of carrying out tests on showers in accordance with Annex 1.  
 
 
9. Application for Registration 
 
 Application Procedures  
9.1 All manufacturers, importers and other  related  parties in the shower business  
are welcomed and encouraged to participate in the  Scheme.  For some 
known manufacturers and importers, invitation letters will be issued to them. 
However, any manufacturers, importers and other related parties in the 
shower business  may submit applications for registration no matter whether 
they are invited or not.  
 
9.2 The application for registration can be submitted by means of an application 
letter through mail, facsimile (Fax. No.: to be advised) or electronic mail 
(e-mail address to be advised) to:   
  
   Water Supplies Department  
   Immigration Tower  
   7 Gloucester Road, Wanchai  
   Hong Kong  
  
 A proforma letter of application is attached in Annex 3.  In order to ensure 
effective implementation of the Scheme, the participant must be committed to 
full compliance  with the obligations set out in the Scheme.  The proforma 
letter of application i n Annex 3 details the obligations.  The proforma 
application letter is also available at the Water S upplies Department’ s website  
(http://www.wsd.gov.hk/ ) for downloading.  The application submission can 
be made in either English or Chinese . 
  
 Page 9 of 15  Information/Documents to be Submitted for Application  
9.3 The information to be submitted with the application are listed as follows:  
 
(a) Information of  the company , i.e. name, address, telephone number, fax 
number , e-mail address, contact person, and sale distribution network 
(names and addresses of the distributor(s), etc.)  
(b) Information of the shower being applied for registration in the Scheme, 
i.e. brand name, model no. and/or name, catalogue ( if available), two 
photos clearly showing the front and side views of the shower, and 
country of origin  
(c) Parties which will be responsible for making and af fixing the Label  
(d) Proposed commencement date to affix the Label to shower (Year _____, 
Month _____)  
(e) Documentary proof that the design and production system for the shower 
is operating according to a recognized international quality system (such 
as ISO 9001)  
(f) Detailed test report in accordance with the reporting requirements specified in Annex 1.  The test report shall be issued by a recognized laboratory complying with the requirements in Section 8.  
 
 The above information is also listed in Annex 4. 
 9.4 Company's chop should be stamped on all the documents provided. All photocopy test reports submitted to the Department shall be certified as true 
copy.   Upon the request of the Department, the participant is required to 
provide the original copy of the test reports.  
 
Acceptance /Rejection  of Application  
9.5 On receipt of the application, the Department will verify whe ther the shower 
meets the performance requirements based on the submitted data and will rate 
the shower with a water efficiency grade according to the shower’s nominal 
flow rate.  
 
9.6 If the application is accepted, the participant will be notified of the result 
within 17 working days  upon  the receipt of all necessary information 
requested.   A registration certificate listing out the information to be 
displayed on the Label will be issued to the participant by the Department.  
The participant will then be allo wed to affix the Label to the ‘registered’ 
shower or its packing .  The participant should ensure that the Label is  
 Page 10 of 15 correctly printed and affixed to the shower or its packing in accordance with 
Section 7.  
 
9.7 If the application is rejected, a notification letter will also be given to the 
participant within 17 working days  upon receipt of all necessary information 
requested.  
 
9.8 The flow chart for registration is shown in Annex 5.  
 
 Participant’s Obligations  
9.9 The participant is obliged to:  
 
(a) submit application, the information required in Section 9.3 and the test 
results which follow the format and procedures set out in Sections I 
and II of Annex 1;  
(b) at his/her own costs, produce the full version Label  and affix it either 
to the shower or its packing at a prominent loc ation in accordance with 
Section 7;  
(c) ensure that the registered shower shall be displayed for sale with the 
full version Label;  
(d) fully inform other  related parties (such as  sales agents, retailers, etc.) 
in the participant’ s sale distribution  network once the shower is 
registered under this Scheme;  
(e) allow random/ad-hoc inspection to be conducted by Inspecting 
Officers authorized by the Director on the registered shower at his/her  
premises;  
(f) allow the tested flow rate and performance data of the registered 
shower to be uploaded to the Department’ s website for public 
information;  
(g) conduct re-test(s) at his/her own costs at a r ecognized laborator y, if 
non-compliance is found on the registered  shower. The result of 
re-test(s) shall reach the Department within the tim e specified by the 
Department;  
(h) inform the Department of any change in the technical information and 
data submitted in the application;  and 
(i) remove within three months all Labels from the shower and its 
packing if it has been de-registered.  
  
 Page 11 of 15 9.10 The details of showers registered under this Scheme will be kept in a register 
maintained by the Department. The registration records will be regularly 
uploaded and maintained in the Department’s website for public’s 
information.  
 
 Termination  
9.11 Under circumstances of poor performance such as:   
 
(a) the participant failing to fulfil the obligations set out in the Scheme; or 
(b) the shower failing to perform in accordance with rated water efficiency 
grade and/or the performance requirements of the Scheme and the 
participant  not be ing able to rectif y the non-compliance within the time 
frame specified by the Department ; or 
(c) where the Director is of the opinion that registration of a shower is 
contrary to the public interest,  
 
the Department may de-register a shower from the Scheme with immediate 
effect by giving the participant notice in writing.   Once a shower is 
de-registered, it is not allowed to af fix a Label to it. The participant shall 
remove all Labels from the de-registered shower and its packing within three 
months from the notice .  
 
9.12 Participant who decides to discontinue participating in the Scheme or to 
withdraw any registered model from the Scheme  shall give at least three 
months’ advance notice to the Department.  
 
 
10. Legal Provisions  
 
10.1 Without prejudice to any remedy a purchaser may have against the party under the law of Hong Kong, a culpable party may be subject to the following 
sanctions.  
 
10.2 This Scheme is a voluntary scheme.  However, a participant who abuses the 
Scheme by giving false information on the Label may constitute an offence 
under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance, Cap 362.  
 
10.3 Unauthorized use of the Label may constitute an offence under the Copyright 
Ordinance, Cap. 528.  
  
 Page 12 of 15  
11. Compliance Monitoring and Inspection 
 
 Purpose  
11.1 To uphold credibility of the Scheme and to maintain continuous confidence of 
the consumers, compliance check on the Label s on those showers registered 
in the Scheme is necessary .  Also to avoid the unsatisfactory situation that 
unauthorized Labels are used on non -registered showers, the Departme nt may 
also carry out suitable form of inspection on those showers which have not 
been registered under the Scheme.  
 
 Scope  
11.2 The scope of inspection includes, but not limited to, sample checking and 
testing for the following items:  
 
(a) whether the Label is aff ixed as required in Section 7;  
(b) whether the Label being displayed is of correct format in accordance 
with Section 7;  
(c) whether the water efficiency grade rated by the Department based on 
the data submitted by the participant is in line with the grade rated from 
the results of random testing conducted by the Department ;  
(d) whether the data shown on the Label tally with the information listed on the registration certificate; and  
(e) whether unregistered showers display unauthorized Labels.  
 11.3 The participants will be requested to take immediate remedial action and 
report the follow-up action taken if non-compliance is found on their 
registered showers such as incorrect information shown on the L abel.  
 
11.4 The Department will periodically appoint a recognized laboratory to conduct 
random testing on the registered showers in accordance with the requirements 
specified in Sections I and II of Annex 1.  For a registered shower which is 
found to fall within either one of the following cases, the Department may 
request the participant to conduct separate test at his/her own cost, in 
accordance with the testing methodology as stated in Annex 1  in a recognized  
laborator y agreed by the Department.   
 
(a) The shower is found not meeting the performance requirements 
specified in Section 5.3; or  
 Page 13 of 15 (b) The shower is found not meeting the water efficiency grade rated based 
on the data previously submitted by the participant in the application.  
 
The test should be carried out on at least three further samples of the s hower  .  
For the case (a) above, the performance test results of the three showers 
should meet the requirements specified in Section 5.3.  If the test results fail 
to meet such requirements, the Department may either require the participant 
to withdraw his/her registration or de-register the shower from the Scheme.  
For the case (b) above, the water efficiency  grading rated from the average 
nominal flow rate of the three shower samples should be the same as the 
grading on the Label.  Otherwise, the Department will require the 
participant to t ake appropriate remedial action including replacing a Label 
with correct grading and flow rate for the registered shower .   
 
11.5 If non-compliance is confirmed and no remedial action is taken by the  
participant within the time prescribed by the Department, the Department 
may order it be de -registered from the Scheme.  Once a shower is 
de-registered, it is not allowed to af fix a Label to it. The participant shall 
remove all Labels from the de-registered shower and its packing within three 
months from the notice .  Failure to remove the Labels from the de-registered 
shower may contravene the relevant ordinances as mentioned in Section 10 
above.  
 
 Inspecting Officers  
11.6 The Director will authorize Inspecting Officers to carry out shower 
compliance monitoring and inspection.  The officers will carry proper 
identification cards which will be produced during their inspection. However, 
the officers will not inform the participants in advance of their inspection.  
 
11.7 It is the participants' obligation to allow the Inspecting Officers to gain access 
to their premises to carry out the inspection.  
 
  Mode of Inspection  
11.8 Inspections will be carried out on registered showers under the Scheme on a 
random basis. Based on the record of the registration, random inspection 
programmes will be developed.  Inspection will also be conducted on the 
non-registered showers with unauthorized Labels.  
  
 Page 14 of 15 11.9 In addition to the random inspections, the Inspecting officers will carry out 
ad-hoc inspections in response to complaints. The items to be inspected in 
such a case will depend upon the nature of complaint and may include the 
items as stated in Section 11.2.  
 
11.10  Inspections will normally be carried out at the retail outlets  and shower 
showrooms. Where necessary, inspection will also be done at warehouses.  
 11.11  The inspection results will be properly recorded for future analysis as well as 
on evaluation of the effectiveness of the Scheme.  
 
 
12. Complaints and Appeal 
 
12.1 The Department will be responsible for dealing with complaints from 
participants and other parties against matters related to the Scheme.  
 
 Complaints Handling Procedure  
12.2 The Director shall ensure that complaints are properly recorded and handled 
without undue delay.  
 12.3 The Department shall carry out investigation on complaints and reply to the 
complainants within a reasonable time.  For complaints that require site 
inspection and laboratory test, the complainant shall be notified through an 
interim reply.  
 12.4 The Department shall inform the complainant of the results or decisions made 
on the complaint.  
 
 Appeal Procedure  
12.5 A participant may appeal against the decision or action taken by the 
Department  in writing to the Director stating the reason for the appeal. 
 
12.6 The Director may decide to suspend the decision or action taken by the 
Department from the day on which the appeal is made until such appeal is disposed of, withdrawn or abandoned unless such suspension would, in the 
opinion of the Director, be contrary to public interest.  
  
 Page 15 of 15 12.7 The Director may , by notice to the appellant,  require the  appellant to attend 
meeting(s)  with him or his representatives and provide documents and give 
evidence relevant to the appeal.  
 
12.8 The Director shall notify the appellant of his decision and reasons for it.  
The decision will be final and binding.  
 
13. Maintenance of Scheme  
 13.1 To ensure that the Scheme can continue to operate effectively and efficiently , 
the Scheme will be maint ained as follows:  
 
(a) Continuous updating of the lists of showers registered in the Scheme as 
follows: 
 
i) registered showers with details such as registration num bers in 
the Scheme, dates  of registration, flow rate data, performance 
data, makes , model s and other related information; and  
ii) registered manufacturers, importers or other related parties with 
details such as address es, telephone numbers, e-mail addresses, 
etc. 
 
(b) Periodic review of the testing methodologies, procedures for 
registration application and compliance monitoring etc.   
(c) Continuous evaluation of the effectiveness of the Scheme and 
assessment of what changes are necessary.  
   Annex 1  
Page  A1  
 
Testing Guidelines for Showers for Bathing  
 
 
 
Condensed Testing Requirements  
with reference to the  
AS/NZS 3662:2005 Standard with amendment no. 1  
 
 
 
 
 
 
- Note -  
 
This Annex is a guideline to facilitate the participant to grasp the context of water 
efficiency testing requi rements.  It makes reference to the Appendices B, C, D and F 
of the captioned standard and focuses on the measurement of water flow rate and 
other related performance aspects. The participant should be able to obtain from the 
text a good appreciation of the test ing requirements.  On the other hand, the 
captioned  standard is much more  comprehensive and detailed and contains exact 
definitions.  Due to condensed size, this Annex cannot replace the captioned standard 
nor is there any intention to do so. In case of doubt, the captioned standard should 
always be consulted.  
 
Section I of this Annex describes the methodology for determination of Nominal Flow 
Rate for Showers.  Other performance tests for showers are elaborated in Section II.  
 The Department would like to acknowledge the assistance of the SAI Global Limited, 
Australia for granting permission to reprint the content of the above-mentioned 
Appendices  under Licence 0904-C015.  Annex 1  
Page  A2 
 
A1. Scope  
 
This section sets out the method for determining the nominal flow rate of a shower.  
 
A2. Principle  
 
The shower to be tested is supported in a test rig as specified in the AS/NZS 
3662:2005 Standard and water is passed through the shower at dynamic flow 
pressures of 50kPa, 150 kPa, 250 kPa, 350 kPa and 500 kPa; when the flow rate has 
stabilized it is recorded at each of these pressures at ambient water temperature.  
 
A3. Apparatus  
 
The following apparatus is required:  
 
(a) A water supply capable of delivering water  at: - 
(i) A flow rate of more than 20 l/min; and  
(ii) A dynamic flow pressure of at least 500 kPa.  
(b) Test apparatus made from DN 15, Type B copper pipe or equivalent.  The 
branch for flow pressure measurements shall be located at least 250 mm 
downstream of any valve or fitting.  The shower connection shall be not 
more than 300 mm downstream of the branch for flow pressure measurements.   A typical test arrangement is shown in Figure A1 below.  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Figure A1 – Typical Test Arrangement  Section I – Methodology for Determination of Nominal Flow 
Rate for Showers  
on stand, see Figure C1  
see Figure B1    Annex 1  
Page  A3 (c) A pressure gauge having an accuracy of ±2% of the true value.  
(d) A flow meter having an accuracy of ±2% of the true value.  
 
A4. Procedure  
 
The procedure shall be as follows: 
 
(a) Where a shower is supplied with other components (e.g. an arm, shower hose, 
elbow with a flow controller) as semble the shower in accordance with the 
manufacturer ’s specified method of assembly.  
(b) For showers with adjustable spray settings, adjust the spray to the maximum 
flow setting.  
(c) Mount the shower in the test rig with the water supply connected to the 
intended inlet.  
(d) Condition the shower by allowing the water to flow and adjusting the control valve gradually until the dynamic flow pressure of 500 kPa is achieved.  
Maintain the flow until the flow and pressure remain stable for at least 1 minute.  
(e) Gradually a djust the control valve to turn off the flow of water.  
(f) Gradually turn on the flow of water until a stabilized flow at a dynamic flow 
pressure of 50 kPa is achieved.  
(g) Observed the flow meter and record the flow rate at that dynamic flow 
pressure.  
(h) Repeat steps (f) and (g) with the dynamic flow pressure increased to 150kPa, 250 kPa, 350 kPa and then to 500 kPa.  
(i) Gradually adjust the control valve to turn off the flow of water.  
(j) Repeat steps (f) and (i) to obtain a second reading of the flow rates at the range of pressures.  
(k) Calculate and record the average flow rates at each of the following dynamic pressures:  
(i) 50 kPa  
(ii) 150 kPa  
(iii) 250 kPa  
(iv) 350 kPa  
(v) 500 kPa  
(l) Calculate the mean of the average flow rate obtained in step (k)(ii) to (k)(iv), 
and record this value as the no minal flow rate.  Please note that although the 
shower is tested from 50 kPa to 500 kPa, the recording of the average flow   Annex 1  
Page  A4 rate at the pressure of 50 kPa and 500 kPa is to facilitate consumers in making 
their shower selection.  
 
A5. Test Report  
 
The following shall be reported and attached:  
 (a) Manufacturer, brand name, model name and model number (if these are 
applicable) of the shower.  
(b) The average flow rate (in litres per minute) through the test sample, at the 
dynamic flow pressures of :- 
(i) 50 kPa;  
(ii) 150 kPa;  
(iii) 250 kPa;  
(iv) 350 kPa; and  
(v) 500 kPa.  
Note: The average flow rate as determined in paragraph A4 (k)  
(c) The nominal flow rate.  
Note: As determined in paragraph A4 (l).  
(d) Three photos showing the front view of the shower spray holes, side view of 
the shower and the connection hole/flow controller of the shower.  
(e) Statement on the assembly of the shower for testing as required in paragraph 
A4(a), e.g. test conducted with other components such as flow controller.  
(f) Combine the test report sections as specified in Section II to form a complete 
test report.  
 
 
Section II – Methodology for other Performance Tests for 
Showers  
 
Scope  
 
This section outlines the methodology  for the following performance tests:-  
(a) Determination of mean spray spread angle;  
(b) Measurement of temperature drop;  and 
(c) Endurance test for flow controllers used in showers (if incorporated in 
showers or being components of showers)  
   Annex 1  
Page  A5 
B Determination of Mean Spray Spread Angle  
 
B1. Principle  
 The shower is supported in a test rig.  Water is run through the shower, at a dynamic pressure of 250 kPa and ambient water temperature, into an annular gauge.  The 
water collected in each section of the gauge is then measured and the mean spray 
spread angle is calculated 
  
B2. Apparatus  
 
The following apparatus is required:-  
 
(a) A water supply  capable of delivering water at:-  
(i) A flow rate of more than 20 l/min; and  
(ii) A dynamic flow pressure of at least 500 kPa.  
(b) An annular gauge as shown in Figure B1.  
(c) A flow meter to measure total flow to within ±2% of the true value.  
(d) Measuring cylinders to measure, within ± 5 ml/l, the volume of water 
collected in each annular cylinder of the annular gauge.  
(e) A stopwatch with an accuracy of ±0.1s.  
(f) A tape measure.  
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Figure B1 – Typical Annular Gauge  
   Annex 1  
Page  A6 B3. Procedure  
 
The procedure shall be as follows: 
 
(a) Where a shower is supplied with other components (e.g. an arm, shower hose, 
elbow with a flow controller) assemble the shower in accordance with the 
manufacturer ’s specified method of assembly.  
(b) For showers with adjustable spray settings, adjust the spray to the maximum 
flow setting.  
(c) Mount the shower in the test rig with the water supply connected to the 
intended inlet with the faceplate horizontal.  
(d) Place the annular gauge underneath the shower so that the centre-line of the faceplate and the centre cylinder are in vertical alignment and the top of the 
annular gauge is 400 ±5 mm from the faceplate.  
(e) Cover the top of the annular gauge and adjust the water supply to flow at a 
stabilized dynamic pressure of 250 kPa.  Remove the cover and allow the 
water to flow through the shower and into the annular gauge for at least 60 
seconds.  
(f) Record the total flow reading on the flow meter and the time to the nearest 
second, ensuring that the water supply is allowed to flow through the shower 
and into the annular gauge.  
(g) Collect, measure and record the volume of water in each annular cylinder.  
Determine the total flow collected by all annular cylinders.  
(h) If the total flow collected by all annular cylinders and the total flow recorded 
on the flow meter vary by more than ±5%, repeat steps (e) to (g).  
(i) If the total flow rate collected by all annular cylinders and the total flow 
recorded on the flow meter do not vary by more than ±5%, determine the 
percentage of water collected in each of the annular cylinders.  
(j) Calculate the effective diameter of the shower as indicated in Paragraph B4.  
(k) Calculate the mean spray spread angle of the shower using the following 
equation:-  
 
 
 
Where: - 
ED = effective diameter of showerhead, in millimetres  (See Clause B4 
to calculate this variable)   Annex 1  
Page  A7  
XN = Percentage of the total flow collected by the individual annular 
cylinders, as determined in step (i) above  
 
N = Number of the annular cylinder, counting from the centre out, i.e.  
 = 1 (i.e. the 50 mm diameter cylinder)  
 = 2 (i.e. the 100 mm diam eter cylinder)  
 = 3 (i.e. the 150 mm diameter cylinder)  
 = ………………………………………  
 = ………………………………………  
 = 10 (i.e. the 500 mm diameter cylinder)  
as such,  
X1 = Percentage of the total flow collected by the 50 mm diameter 
cylinder  
X2 = Percentage of the total f low collected by the 100 mm diameter 
cylinder  
  
 
B4. Calculation of Effective Diameter  
 
(a) Case 1 – Showerhead with a circular pattern of holes on a single diameter  
 
For a showerhead with a faceplate that has a circular pattern of holes along a 
single diameter pattern, calculate the effective diameter (ED) using the 
following equation:  
  
 ED = D  
 
 Where  
 
 D = projected diameter along which the holes lie (see Figure B2, Case 1) 
  
(b) Case 2 –  Showerhead with a circular pattern of holes on several 
diameters  
 
For a showerhead with a faceplate that has a circular pattern of holes along 
several circular patterns of varying diameters, calculate the effective diameter (ED) using the following equation:    Annex 1  
Page  A8 
 
 
  
 Where  
D1 = Projected diameter along which the innermost holes lie  
D2 = Projected diameter along which the second innermost holes lie  
D3 = Projected diameter along which the third innermost holes lie etc.  
 and 
H1 = Number of holes that lie along the innermost projected diameter  
H2 = Number of holes that lie along the s econd innermost projected 
diameter  
H3 = Number of holes that lie along the third innermost projected 
diameter (see figure B2, Case 2)  
 
(c) Case 3 – Showerhead with holes on evenly spaced pattern  
 
 For a showerhead with a faceplate that has an evenly spaced pattern of holes 
that can be approximated to a circular pattern, calculate the effective diameter 
(ED) using the following equation:  
 
 
 
 Where  
D  = maximum distance between the outermost holes (see Figure B2, 
Case 3  
 
(d) Case 4 – Showerhead with non -circular  patterns of holes  
 
 For a showerhead with a non-circular pattern of holes (see Figure B2, Case 4)  
 
 Option 1  
 
 Rectangular shaped spray patterns  
 
   
 Where    Annex 1  
Page  A9  B = breadth of the spray pattern  
 W = width of the spray pattern  
 
 Option 2  
 
 Rectangular or other shaped spray patterns (circularizing parameters of spray 
pattern) use the equation in Case 2.  
 
B5. Test Report  
 
The following shall be reported and formed part of the test report specified in 
paragraph A5:  
 (a) Total flow rate (l/min) for all the annular cylinders  
(b) Percentage of the total flow collected by each annular cylinder  
(c) The calculated mean spray spread angle  
  
   Annex 1  
Page  A10 
Figure B2 – Various Shaped Showerheads for Calculating the Effective Diameter  
   Annex 1  
Page  A11 C Measurement of Temperature Drop  
 
C1. Principle  
 
Heated water is passed through a shower at a dynamic pressure of 250 kPa.  The 
temperature of the water flow is measured at 150 mm and at 750 mm below the 
faceplate and the temperature drop is determined.  
 
C2. Apparatus  
 
The following apparatus is required:-  
 
(a) A water supply cap able of delivering heated water at:  
(i) A temperature of 20 ±3oC above ambient;  
(ii) Flow rate at of more than 20 l/min; and  
(iii) A dynamic flow pressure of at least 250 kPa.  
(b) A temperature gauge as shown in Figure C1, having a differential temperature 
accuracy of ±0.5oC.  
(c) A pressure gauge having an accuracy of ±2% of the true value.  
(d) A flow meter to measure total flow to within ±2% of the true value.  
(e) A tape measure.  
 
C3. Procedure  
 
The procedure shall be as follows: 
 
(a) Where a showerhead is supplied with other components (e.g. an arm, shower 
hose, elbow with a flow controller), assemble the shower in accordance with 
the manufacturer ’s specified method of assembly.  
(b) For showers with adjustable spray settings, adjust the spray to the maximum 
flow setting.  
(c) Mount the shower in the test ring with the water supply connected to the 
intended inlet with the faceplate horizontal and 150 ±5 mm vertically above 
the temperature gauge.  
(d) Measure ambient air temperature.  
(e) Adjust the water supply temperature to 20 ±3oC above ambient temperature.  
(f) Allow the water to flow and adjust the control valve gradually until the   Annex 1  
Page  A12 dynamic flow pressure of 250 kPa is achieved.  Maintain the flow until the 
flow and pressure remain stable for at least 1 minute.  
(g) Allow the temperature on the gauge to stabilize and record the reading. 
(h) Lower the temperature gauge to a position 750 ±5 mm below the faceplate.  
Move the gauge in its horizontal plane to find the most advantageous location 
to maximize the temperature reading on the gauge.  Allow the temperature 
on the gauge to stabilize and record the reading. 
(i) Raise the temperature gauge to its original position.  Allow the temperature 
on the gauge to stabilize and record the reading. 
(j) If the temperature recorded in steps (g) and (i) vary more than ±0.5oC, repeat 
steps (d) to (i).  
(k) If the temperature recorded in steps (g) and (i) do not vary more than ±0.5oC, 
record the reading in steps (i).  
(l) Calculate the difference in the temperatures measured in steps (g) and (h) and 
record this as the temperature drop of the shower.  
 
C4. Test Report  
 
The following shall be reported and formed part of the test report specified in 
paragraph A5:  
 
(a) Ambient air temperature 
(b) Supply heated water temperature  
(c) Water temperatures measured when the faceplate was 150 mm from the 
temperature gauge, as recorded in paragraph C3 (g).  
(d) Water temperature measured when the faceplate was 750 mm from the temperature gauge, as recorded in paragraph C3 (h).  
(e) Water temperature measured when the faceplate was returned to its initial 
position of 150 mm from the temperature gau ge, as recorded in paragraph C3 
(i). 
(f) Temperature drop, as recorded in paragraph C3 (l).  
   Annex 1  
Page  A13 
 
 
Figure C1 – Typical Temperature Measuring Gauge  
 
D Endurance Test for Flow Controllers used in Showers (if incorporated in 
showers or being components of showers)  
 
D1. Principle  
 The flow controller, mounted in the same housing (test sample) as used in the shower, 
is held in a test rig and connected to a temperature-controlled heated and cold water 
supply at a given pressure.  A cyclic mechanism is used to open and close the valve 
providing water to the test sample.  A device to monitor the system for 
inconsistencies and breakdown is integrated in the mechanism.  On completion of the 
pressure cycles, the test sample is retested in accordance with Section I of this Annex.  
  
D2. Test Rig Apparatus  
 
A test rig fitted with a counter to count complete cycles, and capable of – 
 
(a) Operating the test sample through 10 000 ±100 cycles from 0 kPa to 350 kPa;  
(b) Delivering heated water at a temperature of 55 ±3
oC; 
(c) Delivering a flow rate of 20 l/min at 350 kPa;  
(d) Providing 12 ±1 cycles per min; and    Annex 1  
Page  A14 (e) Alternating ambient and heated water every 55 ±5 cycles.  
 
D3. Procedure  
 
The procedure shall be as follows: 
 (a) Test the sample in accordance with Section I of this Annex to determine and 
record the initial  nominal flow rate and average flow rates at 150 kPa, 250 
kPa, and 350 kPa of the test sample.  
(b) Connect the test sample to the test rig.  
(c) Adjust the supply pressures with each water supply and check that the 
pressures and water temperatures are as specified. 
(d) Commence the opening and closing operation of the valves supplying water to the test sample.  
(e) Reset the cycle counter to zero.  
(f) Commence the cycles at 12 ±1 cycles per minute for 10 000 ±100 cycles 
between 0 kPa and 350 kPa and alternate ambient and heated water every 55 
±5 cycles.  
(g) At the completion of steps (f), retest the test sample in accordance with 
Section I of this Annex to determine and record the final nominal flow rate 
and average flow rates at 150 kPa, 250 kPa and 350 kPa of the test sample.  
(h) Calculate the difference between the nominal flow rates of the test sample 
determined  in step (a) and step (g).  
  
D4. Test Report  
 
The following shall be reported and formed part of the test report specified in 
paragraph A5:  
 
(a) Manufacturer, model, size and type of the housing and flow controller  
(b) Number of cycles completed  
(c) Initial nominal flow rate and average flow rates of the test sample determined 
in paragraph D3 (a)  
(d) Final nominal flow rate and average flow rates of the test sample determined 
in paragraph D3 (g)  
(e) The difference between the nominal flow rates of the test sample determined 
in paragraph D3 (h)     Annex 2  
Page  A15 Water Efficiency Label  
 
49 mm  
 
    
 
            85 mm  
 
       
 
 
 Full Version  
 
                              20 mm  
 
 
 
                    
 40 mm 
 
       
 
  
Simplified Version  
 
Notes:  
1. The soft copy of these water efficiency labels can be obtained from the Water 
Supplies Department.  
 (These are only sample designs of the labels for illustrating the format and 
information to be shown on the labels. They are subject to further artwork design.) WWaatteerr  EEffffiicciieennccyy  LLaabbeell  
用用水水效效益益標標籤籤  
 
Water Efficiency Grade  
用水效益級別  1 
 
The fewer droplets, the more water 
efficient 
水點愈少，用水效益愈 高。 
 
Brand  牌子 WEL 
某某牌  
Model 型號 WS123  
Water Consumption  
耗水量   
(litre per minute)   
(每分鐘公升 )  
8.2 
 
For more information, please refer to 
www.wsd.gov.hk  or call 2824 5000.  
如需詳細資料，請登入
www.wsd.gov.hk  或致電 2824 5000。   
W 
WSD  
水務署  
 
WWaatteerr  
EEffffiicciieennccyy  
LLaabbeell  
用用水水效效益益標標籤籤  
 
  
 
Grade  
級別  1 
Brand  
牌子 WEL 
某某牌  
Model  
型號 WS123 
 
    Annex 3  
Page  A16 Proforma Letter of Application  
Your ref.   
Our ref.  
         
Tel. 
 
Date  
 Water Supplies Department  
Immigration Tower  
7 Gloucester Road, Wanchai  
Hong Kong  
 
Dear Sir/Madam,  
 
 Application for Registration in the Hong Kong Voluntary Water Efficiency 
Labelling Scheme on Showers for Bathing  
Our company is the (manufacturer / importer / other related parties (please specify)*)  
of___________________(brand name, model number and/or name of shower)  in 
Hong Kong. We would like to apply for registration of the shower in the above 
scheme.  
 We understand fully our obligations as stated in the scheme  document and will 
comply with all relevant requirements, in particular those specified below:  
 (a) submit application, the information required in Section 9.3 of the scheme 
document and the test results which follow the format and procedures set out 
in Section s I and II of Annex 1 of the scheme document;  
(b) at our own costs, produce the full version water efficiency label  and affix it 
either to the shower or its packing at a prominent location in accordance with 
Section 7 of the scheme document;  
(c) ensure that the registered shower shall be displayed for sale with the full 
version water efficiency label;  
(d) fully inform other related parties (such as sales agents, retailers, etc.) in our 
sale distribution network once the shower is registered under the above 
scheme;     Annex 3  
Page  A17 (e) allow random/ad- hoc inspection to be conducted by Inspecting Officers  
authorized by the Director of Water Supplies  on the registered shower at our  
premises;  
(f) allow the tested flow rate and performance data of the registered shower to be 
uploaded to the website of the Water Supplies Department (WSD) for public 
information;  
(g) conduct re-test(s) at our own costs at a recognized laborator y in Section 8 of 
the scheme document, if non-compliance is found on the registered shower. 
The result of re-test(s) shall reach WSD  within the time specified by WSD ; 
(h) inform WSD  of any change in the technical information and data submitted in 
this application; and  
(i) remove within three months all L abels from the shower and its packing if it 
has been de- registered.  
 
The detailed  information of the shower which we apply for registration is shown in 
the attached document s (see Annex 4 for the list of information to be submitted) for 
your processing.  
 
 
Yours faithfully,  
 
 
 
 
(Manufacturer/Importer/Agent's Name and Company Chop)  
  
______________  
*         delete as appropriate    Annex 4 
Page  A18 Information to be Submitted  
 to the Water Supplies Department  
 
1. Information of  the company , i.e. name, address, telephone number, f ax number , 
e-mail address, contact person, and sale distribution network (e.g. names and 
addresses of the distributor(s), etc.)  
 
2. Information of the shower being applied for registered in the Hong Kong 
V oluntary Water Efficiency Labelling Scheme on Showers for Bathing, i.e. 
brand name, model no. and/or name, catalogue (if available), two photos 
clearly showing the front and side views of the shower, and country of origin 
 
3. Parties which will be responsible for making and affixing the water efficiency 
label  (Label ) 
 
4. Proposed commencement date to affix the Label to shower  (Year _____,  
Month _____)  
 
5. Documentary proof that the design and production system for the shower is 
operating according to a recognized international quality system (such as ISO 
9001)  
 
6. Detailed test report in accordance with the reporting requirements specified in Annex 1 of the scheme document.  The test report shall be issued by a 
recognized laboratory complying with the requirement in Section 8 of the 
scheme document.  
 
 
 
 
Note:  Company's chop should be stamped on all the documents provided. All test 
reports submitted to the Water Supplies Department (WSD)  should be certified 
as true copy.  Upon the request of WSD, the participant is required to provide 
the original copy of the test reports for perusal.  Annex 5 
Page  A19  Flow Chart for Registration  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
    
 
 
 
 
 Commencement  
of Scheme  
Through  
other  
channel s 
Manufacturers  
importers,   
other related parties  
Submit application  
& info rmation  
(see Annexes  3 and 4)  
 
 
Application  
accepted  
? 
Register  
shower  
Record   
Through  
invitation letter  
 
Rejected  
no 
yes Process  
application