Lead Service Lines in Lihue, Hawaii
What you need to know
Lihue and the surrounding Kauai communities served by 11 water systems have reported no known lead service lines to the EPA. This is good news, but it's worth understanding what this data means and how to stay informed.
Lead service lines are pipes that connect the water main (in the street) to your home. If present, they can leach lead into drinking water, especially if the water is corrosive. The good news: Hawaii's water systems have generally invested in modern infrastructure, and Lihue's systems show no confirmed lead lines in their current inventories.
The five largest water systems serving Lihue
Lihue-Kapaa (34,854 people) is the largest system in the area. Kalaheo-Koloa (12,660 people), Kekaha-Waimea (5,998 people), Hanapepe-Eleele (5,592 people), and Kilauea (3,420 people) round out the top five. All five report no known lead service lines to date.
However, "no known lead" is not the same as "impossible to have lead." Smaller systems, older neighborhoods, and properties connected before modern plumbing codes may still have lead lines that haven't been identified yet. Your utility has or is developing an inventory based on EPA requirements.
Why this matters
Lead exposure can harm children's brain development and cause learning and behavior problems. Adults can experience kidney damage and high blood pressure. No amount of lead exposure is considered safe by the CDC.
If your home was built before 1988 (when federal lead solder bans took effect), or if you live in an older Lihue neighborhood, it's reasonable to ask your water utility directly whether your property has been surveyed for lead service lines.
Next steps for residents
- Contact your water utility to ask if your address has been surveyed for lead service lines and what your line material is.
- Request a free water test if you're concerned. Most utilities offer lead testing at no cost.
- Consider a point-of-use filter (pitcher or faucet-mounted) certified for lead reduction while you confirm your line material.
- Flush your lines before drinking or cooking with tap water, especially if the home has been vacant.