Lead Service Lines in HOWARD WATERWORKS
HOWARD WATERWORKS serves about 21,133 people in Wisconsin. If you're on this water system and wondering about lead in your home's water pipes, here's what you need to know.
What is a lead service line?
A lead service line is the pipe that carries water from the main water line under the street into your home. Homes built before the 1980s are more likely to have them. Lead pipes can release lead into your drinking water, especially if the water is acidic or if water sits in the pipes for hours.
Does HOWARD WATERWORKS have lead service lines?
HOWARD WATERWORKS has not yet completed a full inventory of lead service lines on its system. This means the utility doesn't have a public count of how many homes are affected. This doesn't mean there are no lead service lines—it means the data isn't available yet.
The federal government requires all water systems to complete lead service line inventories. HOWARD WATERWORKS is still working on this requirement.
How can you protect your home?
Even without a full inventory, you can take steps now:
- Know your home's age. If your home was built before 1980, lead service lines are more common.
- Test your water. A simple test can tell you if lead is present. Contact HOWARD WATERWORKS for a free or low-cost test kit.
- Flush your pipes. If water hasn't been used for several hours, run the cold water tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before drinking or cooking. This removes water that's been sitting in pipes.
- Use cold water for cooking and drinking. Hot water dissolves lead more easily than cold water.
When will HOWARD WATERWORKS finish its inventory?
The utility is required by law to complete its inventory, but a specific deadline for HOWARD WATERWORKS hasn't been listed publicly yet. Contact the utility directly to ask about their timeline.
Next steps for residents
- Call HOWARD WATERWORKS to ask about lead service line testing programs and get your home checked if it was built before 1980.
- Request a water test if you're concerned about lead levels in your home.
- Flush your pipes before drinking water that's been sitting overnight.
- Contact the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources if you have questions about your water system's lead compliance.
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
How do I know if my house has a lead service line?
The only way to know for sure is to have your water tested or contact HOWARD WATERWORKS directly. Homes built before 1980 are at higher risk. You can also ask your utility if they have any records for your address.
Is lead in water dangerous?
Lead can harm health, especially in children and pregnant people. For specific health concerns, talk to your doctor or call your pediatrician. The CDC has detailed information about lead exposure risks on their website.
What should I do if I'm worried about lead in my water?
Get your water tested through HOWARD WATERWORKS or a certified lab, flush your pipes before drinking, and use cold water for cooking. If testing shows lead, ask your utility about replacement options.
Will HOWARD WATERWORKS replace my lead service line?
This varies by utility. Contact HOWARD WATERWORKS directly to ask about their lead service line replacement program and any financial assistance available.