Lead Service Lines in HNL-WINDWARD-PEARL HARBOR

HNL-WINDWARD-PEARL HARBOR serves about 631,389 people across Hawaii. Like most large water systems in the US, it may have lead service lines—the pipes that connect the water main in the street to homes built before the 1986 federal lead ban.

What we know about this water system

This water system draws from groundwater sources. As of now, the system has not yet completed and shared a public inventory of its lead service lines. That means we don't have a count of how many homes are at risk, or details about which neighborhoods are affected.

This is not unusual—the EPA's deadline for utilities to complete Lead Service Line Inventories (LSLIs) was October 2024, and some systems are still in progress or have not yet made their data public.

What this means for residents

If your home was built before 1986, it could have a lead service line. Lead in drinking water primarily affects young children and pregnant people, but the only way to know if your home has a lead line is to:

• Ask your water utility directly. Contact HNL-WINDWARD-PEARL HARBOR and ask whether your property has a lead service line. They should have records, even if the public inventory isn't complete yet.
• Check your property records or utility bill. Some utilities note pipe material in their customer databases.
• Have the utility or a licensed plumber inspect the line. A visual inspection of the pipe where it enters your home can sometimes identify lead (it's soft, dull gray, and leaves a mark if scratched).

If you find or suspect a lead service line, ask your utility about replacement programs. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is funding lead line removals nationwide, and Hawaii systems may have programs available.

Health concerns

If you're worried about lead exposure, contact your pediatrician or the CDC's lead information line. They can advise on testing and next steps based on your family's situation.

Next steps for residents

• Contact HNL-WINDWARD-PEARL HARBOR and ask if your address has a lead service line on record.
• Request the utility's Lead Service Line Inventory (LSLI) if it's been completed, or ask when it will be public.
• If you have young children or are pregnant, talk to your doctor about lead exposure risk and water testing.
• Ask about replacement programs if a lead line is confirmed at your home.

```json [ { "q": "Does HNL-WINDWARD-PEARL HARBOR have lead in the water?", "a": "Lead gets into water through old pipes, not from the treatment process. The utility serves groundwater, which is generally lower risk, but if your home has a lead service line, that's the primary concern. The utility hasn't yet released a public inventory of how many lead lines exist in its system." }, { "q": "How do I know if my home has a lead service line in Hawaii?", "a": "Call HNL-WINDWARD-PEARL HARBOR and ask for your property's pipe material records. You can also look where the water line enters your house—lead is soft, dull gray, and will leave a mark if scratched with a coin. A plumber can also inspect it for you." }, { "q": "Is it safe to drink tap water in HNL-WINDWARD-PEARL HARBOR?", "a": "The water from the treatment plant is safe, but lead risk depends on your home's pipes. If your service line is lead, run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking, use cold water for drinking and cooking, and consider a filter certified for lead. Talk to your doctor if you have health concerns." }, { "q": "Can I get my lead