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Lead service lines in Hilo, HI

25 water utilities serve Hilo, with approximately 118,391 people served.

Last verified from EPA SDWIS + utility inventories: 2026-04-14
Known lead
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Galvanized
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Unknown
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% unknown
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Lead Service Lines in Hilo, HI

The water systems serving Hilo and surrounding areas currently report no confirmed lead service lines in their inventories. This is good news—but it doesn't mean you shouldn't verify your home's water connection.

What we know about Hilo's water systems

About 118,000 people across the Big Island of Hawaii rely on 25 different water systems. The largest provider is the City and County of Hawaii's Hilo system, which serves roughly 39,500 people. Other significant systems include North Kona (29,581 people), South Kohala (9,612 people), South Kona (6,512 people), and Olaa-Mountain View (6,467 people).

None of these systems have reported known lead service lines to date. However, some systems have not yet completed their full lead service line inventories—the data marked as "unknown" means testing or documentation is still underway.

Why this matters for your home

A lead service line is the pipe connecting your home to the public water main. If your line is made of lead, water can pick up lead as it travels to your tap. This is especially concerning for children and pregnant women.

Hawaii's older homes—built before the 1980s—are more likely to have lead service lines, even if the water system hasn't flagged them yet. Homes built after 1986 are unlikely to have lead lines, thanks to federal regulations that banned lead in plumbing.

Next steps for residents

  • Contact your water utility directly. Ask them whether your specific address has a lead service line. The Hilo water system can tell you what material connects your home to the main.
  • Check your home's age. If it was built before 1980, request a water test or have a plumber inspect your service line.
  • If you're concerned about lead in your water, ask your utility about free or low-cost testing through their lead and copper rule sampling program.
  • Visit the EPA's lead information page for guidance on reducing lead exposure and understanding test results.

Utilities serving Hilo

Common questions

Does Hilo have lead in the water?

Current records show no confirmed lead service lines in Hilo's water systems. However, inventories are still being completed. Contact your local water utility to confirm your home's service line material.

How do I know if my house has a lead service line?

Call your water utility and provide your address. They can tell you what material connects your home to the main. Homes built before 1980 are more likely to have lead lines.

Is it safe to drink tap water in Hilo?

Hilo's water systems meet federal safety standards. If you're worried about lead specifically, ask your utility for a free water test or have a plumber inspect your service line.

What should I do if my home has a lead service line?

Use a water filter certified for lead, run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking, and consider replacing the line. Talk to your utility about replacement programs or assistance.