NORTH KONA Water System: Lead Service Line Information
North Kona provides water to about 29,581 residents in Hawaii. Like all public water systems in the US, it is required by federal law to identify and report on lead service lines—pipes that may carry lead into your home.
What we know about lead service lines in North Kona
North Kona has not yet completed a public inventory of lead service lines in its system. This does not mean there are no lead pipes; it means the utility has not yet documented or shared that information publicly.
The utility draws water from groundwater sources, which may have different corrosion characteristics than surface water systems. Groundwater systems can still have lead issues if pipes, meters, or plumbing fixtures contain lead.
Why this matters for your home
Lead service lines are the single biggest source of lead in drinking water for most US homes. A lead service line connects the water main under the street to your home. Even if your home's interior plumbing is safe, water traveling through a lead line can pick up lead before it reaches your tap.
Infants, young children, and pregnant people are most vulnerable to lead's health effects. If you are concerned about lead exposure, contact your pediatrician or the CDC.
What you can do now
Contact your utility directly. North Kona can tell you:
- Whether your home has a lead service line
- What the utility knows about lead in your area
- How to request a free or reduced-cost water test
You can also take steps to reduce exposure while waiting for system-wide improvements: run cold water for 30 seconds before using it for drinking or cooking, use cold water for infant formula, and consider a certified lead-removing filter if you're concerned.
Next steps for residents
- Call North Kona water department and ask if your address is on a lead service line or if lead testing is available.
- Request your water quality report (Consumer Confidence Report), which includes information about lead testing.
- Test your water if you have young children or are pregnant; your utility can advise on free or low-cost options.
- Use cold water for drinking and cooking, especially for infants, until you know your line status.
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
Does North Kona have lead service lines?
North Kona has not yet published a complete public inventory of lead service lines. To find out if your home is served by a lead line, contact the North Kona water utility directly.
Is it safe to drink tap water in North Kona?
North Kona treats and monitors its water, but lead service lines can contaminate water between the main and your home. If you're concerned about lead, contact your utility about testing or ask a doctor.
How much does it cost to replace a lead service line in Hawaii?
Costs vary widely depending on your property. Some water systems offer assistance programs. Contact North Kona to ask about replacement programs or cost-sharing in your area.
Can I filter lead out of my tap water?
Yes—NSF-certified filters marked for lead removal can reduce lead at the tap. Filters require regular replacement. This is not a substitute for replacing lead lines, but a short-term safety measure while you pursue testing and replacement.