Lead Service Lines in Makawao Water System
Makawao serves about 30,000 people in Hawaii. Like all US water utilities, it is required to locate and track lead service lines—the pipes that may carry water from the public main into your home.
What we know about Makawao's lead service lines
Makawao has not yet reported how many lead service lines exist in its system, or how many pipes it has inventoried so far. This is not unusual; many utilities are still in the early stages of mapping their service lines.
The utility draws from surface water sources. Lead contamination typically occurs in older lead pipes or in brass fittings and solder—not in the water source itself, but in the plumbing between the main and your meter.
Why this matters to you
If your home was built before 1986, there's a higher chance your service line contains lead. Even if the water leaving the treatment plant is safe, lead can leach into your water as it travels through old pipes, especially if your water is slightly acidic.
The federal Lead and Copper Rule requires utilities to test water at customers' taps and to replace lead service lines over time. Makawao is required to develop and follow a service line replacement plan, though details on that plan are not yet publicly available.
What you can do now
Get your water tested. Contact Makawao directly to learn whether your home's service line is documented as lead, galvanized, or unknown. Ask about free or low-cost tap water testing.
Know your home's age. Homes built before 1986 are at higher risk. If you're uncertain, check your deed or ask a neighbor.
Use a water filter if concerned. A filter certified for lead (NSF/ANSI 53) on your tap or pitcher can reduce lead in drinking and cooking water while you wait for testing or replacement.
If you have young children, talk to your pediatrician about testing. The CDC has guidance on reducing lead exposure at home.
Next steps for residents
- Contact Makawao directly to ask about your service line status and request tap water testing.
- Check your home's construction date to understand your risk level.
- Request a copy of the utility's lead service line replacement plan and timeline.
- Install a certified lead filter on your kitchen tap as a precaution while you learn more about your pipes.
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Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
Does Makawao have lead service lines?
Makawao has not yet publicly reported how many lead service lines it has found. The utility is required by federal law to inventory all service lines and create a replacement plan. Contact the utility directly to ask about your specific address.
How do I know if my house has a lead service line?
Call Makawao and ask whether your service line is documented as lead, galvanized, or unknown. You can also look at your water bill or meter paperwork. Homes built before 1986 are at higher risk. A plumber can also inspect the visible portion of your line.
Is Makawao's tap water safe?
Makawao is required to test water quality and follow federal Lead and Copper Rule standards. If lead is detected above safe levels at customer taps, the utility must notify you. Contact the utility for their latest water quality report.
What should I do if I'm worried about lead in my water?
Have your tap water tested by the utility or a certified lab. Use a lead-removal filter (NSF/ANSI 53 certified) on your drinking and cooking water. If you have children under 6, talk to your pediatrician about testing. The utility may offer free or discounted replacement of lead service lines.