Water Quality Report
C 66

Wake Island, HI (96898) Water Safety: 66/100 (2026)

EPA data for Kekaha-waimea

No Violations

What does the federal record say about water quality in 96898, Wake Island, HI? EPA monitoring shows zero violations — no health-based exceedances, no procedural lapses, and no enforcement actions across every tracked reporting period in the compliance history.

Data source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) SDWIS Last verified: March 22, 2026

Based on EPA Drinking Water FEMA Flood Data U.S. Census CDC Energy Information Admin. USGS Water Data & 9 more federal sources
Today's Safety: Good
Violations: None Alerts: 0
2026-06-03
Your water right now: No active violations
AQI: NaN (Unhealthy)
Updated: 2026-06-03
Safety Score
C 66/100
Water Quality Clean
Lead Risk N/A
Flood Risk N/A
Data confidence: High (direct measurement) Medium (sampled / sub-geography) Low (modeled / inferred) Methodology →

At a Glance

  • Water No EPA violations on record for the past 5 years.
  • Radon EPA Zone 3 — low predicted indoor radon (below 2 pCi/L).

Composite Home Safety Score has been stable over the tracking period.

Contaminant Summary
No Violations
0 / 9 exceed limits
9 tested
Data updated: Mar 2026 All data sources current

What’s Happening in Wake Island, Hawaii

No significant water quality or safety concerns have been reported for this area. The safety score is stable.

C
Home Safety Score: 66 / 100
1
Water System
5,998
People Served
0
Health Violations (5yr)
Groundwater
Water Source
Zone 3
Radon Risk · Low

Recommended Buyer Guides for This ZIP

Independent guides — grounded in EPA, NSF, FEMA, and CDC standards. Matched to risks detected in your area.

This Summer — what to check

Season-specific maintenance for home safety. Universal tasks — apply everywhere unless noted.

  • Water Heater

    Flush sediment (1–2×/year). Cuts energy use and prevents bacterial growth in low-use hot-water pockets.

    Source: DOE
  • Wildfire & Smoke

    Clear leaves and debris from gutters and the 30-ft home-ignition zone. Replace HVAC filters with MERV 13+.

    Source: Firewise
  • HVAC Filter

    Peak AC run. Replace filters monthly during high pollen / wildfire-smoke days; standard interval otherwise.

    Source: EPA IAQ

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How Wake Island Compares

Safety Score vs. Kauai County and Hawaii averages

Safety Score
Wake Island
66
Kauai County
74
Hawaii avg
79
Worse than 83% of ZIPs in Kauai County 100% fewer violations than county average
Metric Wake Island Kauai County Hawaii
Safety Score 66 74 79
EPA Violations (total) 0 0.1

County and state averages computed from 41,344 ZIP codes. Data: EPA SDWIS.

🔍Key Insights for Wake Island 96898

Derived from EPA, Census, FEMA, and EIA data — exclusive to ZipCheckup

Water System Reliability
90 /100 Excellent
Reliability score based on violation trends, system size, CCR compliance, and enforcement history. The national median is 10/100.
Home Purchase Risk
8 /100 Very Low Risk
Composite "should I buy here?" score for homebuyers. Weighs water quality (25%), flood risk (20%), lead (15%), energy costs (15%), housing age (10%), radon (10%), and air quality (5%). The national median is 10/100.
Methodology: Lead exposure combines EPA LCR testing, Census housing age (ACS B25034), and LCRI service line estimates. Maintenance debt uses Census median build year and NAHB equipment lifespan data. Compliance risk weights health violations, unresolved issues, and EPA enforcement actions. Energy burden uses EIA state rates and Census B19013 median income. Flood cost uses FEMA NFIP claims data (1978–2024) divided by housing units. Water system reliability cross-references violation trends, system size, CCR compliance, and enforcement history. Infrastructure gap estimates deferred costs from housing vintage, pipe materials, and lead detection. Seasonal risk combines radon zones, flood zones, housing age, and air quality data. Environmental justice index weights violations, income disparity, Superfund proximity, and enforcement actions. Home purchase risk is a weighted composite of all environmental and infrastructure factors. Full methodology →
📊 ZipCheckup Cross-Reference Engine · Updated March 2026 · View source →

Score Breakdown

How your Home Safety Score of 88 is calculated.

Water
33/33
Lead
22/33
Radon
33/33
88 = Water 33/33 + Lead 22/33 + Radon 33/33

Score has been stable — no change in the last 90 days.

Safety & Health (6) HIGH

Service Disruption Risk

Moderate
15%

15% estimated probability of a boil water advisory or service interruption in the next 90 days.

Based on infrastructure age, EPA violation history, flood exposure, and seasonal patterns.

Contributing Factors
Seasonal Baseline
+10%
Infrastructure Age
+5%

Estimates based on EPA enforcement data, U.S. Census ACS housing vintage, and FEMA flood claims. Not a guarantee of disruption.

📊 EPA + Census ACS + FEMA · Updated March 2026

Your Water System

ZIP code 96898 in Wake Island, Hawaii is served by Kekaha-waimea (EPA ID: HI0000406). This system provides water to approximately 5,998 people from groundwater sources.

Home Safety Score: C (66/100)

Based on water quality violations, lead levels, and radon risk in your area. This score is better than 44% of ZIP codes nationally and 9% in Hawaii.

Factor Status Details
Water Quality good 0 violations, 0 health-based
Lead in Water unknown No sampling data available
Radon Risk Low Zone 3

Lead & Copper in Your Water

No Lead & Copper Rule sampling data available for systems serving this ZIP code.

Radon Risk

Radon Zone 3 — Low potential (Kauai County)

Lower radon potential for this area, but testing is still recommended for individual homes. Zone 3 indicates a predicted average indoor radon screening level below 2 pCi/L. Actual levels can vary based on home construction and geology.

Violation Summary

No violations recorded — This water system has no recorded EPA violations in the past 5 years. This is a positive indicator of water quality management.

Energy Costs in HI

Residential electricity rate: 39.79¢/kWh — 134% above the national average (17.0¢/kWh).

High electricity rates in Hawaii make energy-efficient appliances and heat pumps particularly valuable for reducing utility bills.

Energy Sources

Hawaii generates 20% of its electricity from renewable sources — 7% below the national average of 26.9%. Including nuclear, 20% of the state's power is carbon-free (EIA 2025).

Source Share
Petroleum 74.5%
Solar 10.3%
Wind 6.1%
Geothermal 2.7%
Hydroelectric 0.9%

Need help with your water quality?

Typical cost: Water test: typically $20–$50 (DIY kit) · Professional inspection: $150–$400

Find the Right Water Filter

Free tip: Let cold water run for 2 minutes before drinking — this helps flush lead from your pipes.

What You Can Do

  1. Review your annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) — Your utility publishes this each July
  2. Test your home's water — Especially if you have older plumbing (pre-1986) that may contain lead
  3. Stay informed — Bookmark this page to check for updates on your water quality

Need help with water testing or filtration?

Typical cost: Water test: typically $20–$50 (DIY kit) · Professional inspection: $150–$400

Find the Right Water Filter

Free tip: Let cold water run for 2 minutes before drinking — this helps flush lead from your pipes.

Other Water Quality Reports in Hawaii

Nearby Water Quality Reports

Data Sources

This report uses public data from the EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS). View the full compliance record for Kekaha-waimea (HI0000406) on EPA.gov.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tap water in 96898 safe to drink?

Based on EPA records, the water system serving ZIP code 96898 has no recorded violations in the past 5 years. However, individual home conditions (old pipes, well water) can affect quality.

Where does 96898's water come from?

The primary water source for this area is groundwater. Kekaha-waimea serves approximately 5,998 people.

How can I get my water tested?

Contact your local water utility for a free water quality report, or hire a certified lab for independent home water testing. The EPA recommends testing annually if you use a private well.

Does 96898 have lead in the water?

No Lead and Copper Rule sampling data is currently available in EPA records for water systems serving ZIP code 96898. If you are concerned about lead, contact your water utility or have your tap water independently tested.

What is the radon risk in 96898?

ZIP code 96898 (Kauai County) falls in EPA Radon Zone 3, indicating low radon potential. Zone 3 areas have lower radon potential, though individual homes can still have elevated radon levels depending on construction and local geology. Testing is still recommended.

📊 EPA Safe Drinking Water · Updated March 2026 · View source →

Your Water Source: Kekaha-Waimea

4 ZIP codes share this system
Source: Groundwater
Serving 5,998 people
Avg. score: 70/100

No violations reported across any of the 4 communities on this water system.

This system draws from groundwater (wells or aquifers). Groundwater systems can be affected by naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic and radon, as well as industrial or agricultural contamination that seeps into aquifers over time.

Other ZIP codes on this system

System ID: HI0000406 · Source: EPA SDWIS

Score History

Stable Score changed from 66 to 66 over 72 days
30-day change: 0

Tracking since 2026-03-23 · 50 data points

Safety Score Timeline

85+ 70–84 55–69 <55 Oldest → Newest · 24 data points

Consumer Confidence Report

2024 Report

Annual water quality report published by Kekaha-Waimea Water System for ZIP code 96898.

9
Contaminants Tested
0
MCL Violations

Key Contaminants

Contaminant Level MCL Status
Alpha Emitters 13 pCi/L 15 pCi/L Within Limit

Lead & Copper Rule Results

Lead (90th percentile): 0.0025 ppb — EPA action level: 15 ppb
Copper (90th percentile): 0.23 ppm — EPA action level: 1.3 ppm

What Is a Consumer Confidence Report?

Every community water system in the U.S. is required by the EPA to publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR), also known as a Water Quality Report. It lists all detected contaminants, their levels compared to federal limits (MCLs), and information about where your water comes from.

How to Read Your CCR

  • MCL (Maximum Contaminant Level) — the highest level of a contaminant allowed in drinking water
  • MCLG (Maximum Contaminant Level Goal) — the level below which there is no known health risk
  • Action Level — used for lead and copper; triggers treatment if exceeded at the 90th percentile
  • A violation means detected levels exceeded the MCL — your utility must notify you and take corrective action
📊 Water Utility CCR Report · Updated March 2026 · View source →
💧

Based on your water data

Reverse Osmosis (under-sink) · $150–$500 · NSF/ANSI 58, NSF/ANSI 372

Removes 99%+ of lead and PFAS. Addresses Gross Alpha/Beta radiation detected in your water.

View details →

Product links are affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Recommendations are based on NSF certifications and EPA contaminant data, not advertiser influence. See our disclosure.

Lead Pipe Replacement Funding for Hawaii

$28.6M
allocated in fiscal year 2025 for lead service line replacement
Up to $14.0M available as grants for disadvantaged communities (49% of allocation)

Key LCRI Deadlines

Now
Your water system must notify you if you have a lead service line
1
Oct 2027
Water systems must complete service line inventories
2
Oct 2034
All lead service lines must be replaced

What This Means for You

  • If your home was built before 1986, it may have lead service lines
  • Your water utility is required to inventory and replace lead lines at no cost to you
  • Contact your water utility to check if your address is in their inventory

Source: EPA DWSRF Lead Service Line Replacement Program, FY2025 Allotment Memorandum.

Active Alerts in Hawaii

0 active weather alerts in Hawaii. Severe weather can affect your water quality and home safety.

View alerts for Hawaii →

📊 NWS · Updated March 2026 · View source →
Environmental Hazards (5) HIGH

Termite Risk for 96898

Very Heavy Termite Zone
WDI Inspection Requirement

Required for VA/FHA loans statewide; extremely high risk due to Formosan subterranean termites year-round

Typical Inspection Cost
$100 – $250
Based on Hawaii market rates
Consequence

VA/FHA loan will not close without clear NPMA-33 form

Termite Damage in the U.S.

  • Termites cause an estimated $5 billion in property damage annually in the United States, according to the USDA.
  • Standard termite treatment costs $225–$2,500; fumigation for severe infestations: $2,000–$8,000.
  • Homeowner insurance typically does not cover termite damage, as it is considered preventable.

What Homeowners Should Know

  • Annual termite inspections are recommended in moderate-to-heavy risk zones. Early detection can prevent thousands in repair costs.
  • VA and FHA loans require a clear NPMA-33 (Wood Destroying Insect Inspection Report) for closing in most states.
  • Warning signs: mud tubes on foundation walls, hollow-sounding wood, discarded wings near windows, and frass (droppings) near baseboards.
  • Preventive treatment ($200–$900 per year) is far less expensive than structural damage repair, which averages $3,000 and can exceed $50,000.
  • Hawaii falls in a very heavy termite infestation probability (TIP) zone. Subterranean termites are the primary concern, with Formosan subterranean termites also present in this region.
Reference: VA lender requirements; NPMA-33 form; Hawaii Pest Control Act (HRS 460J)

Source: USDA Forest Service Termite Infestation Probability (TIP) zones, VA/FHA lender requirements, Hawaii pest control regulations. Inspection cost estimates reflect typical market rates and may vary by provider, property size, and location. This information is for general guidance only.

Pest Risk for 96898

High Pest Pressure
Top Pest Threats in Hawaii

termites, mosquitoes, cockroaches, fire ants and bed bugs

Typical Pest Inspection Cost
$100 – $275
Based on Hawaii market rates
Licensed Applicator Required
Yes
Hawaii pesticide regulations
⚠ CDC / EPA Disease Zone Alerts
  • Dengue activity zone
Real Estate Transaction Requirement

Required for VA loans in all states; termite inspection standard in conventional sales

Penalty for Unlicensed Application

Up to $10,000 per violation

Why This Matters

  • Health risks: Mosquitoes transmit West Nile virus (1,000+ U.S. cases annually). Ticks spread Lyme disease (estimated 476,000 cases/year per CDC). Rodent droppings can carry hantavirus.
  • Property damage: Carpenter ants and termites cause billions in structural damage annually. Rodents gnaw wiring, creating fire hazards.
  • Food safety: Cockroaches and rodents contaminate food preparation areas and can trigger allergies and asthma, especially in children.
  • Hawaii's climate creates year-round pest pressure. Regular professional inspections and preventive treatment are strongly recommended.

Common Questions

Do I need a pest inspection before buying a home in Hawaii?
VA and FHA loans require a Wood Destroying Insect (WDI) inspection in all states. Required for VA loans in all states; termite inspection standard in conventional sales Even when not legally required, a professional pest inspection ($100–$275) can reveal hidden infestations that cost thousands to remediate.
Can I apply pesticides myself in Hawaii?
Homeowners can generally use over-the-counter pesticide products on their own property. However, restricted-use pesticides require a licensed applicator in Hawaii. Commercial pest control services must be licensed. Up to $10,000 per violation.
What are the most common pests in Hawaii?
The top pest threats in Hawaii include termites, mosquitoes, cockroaches, fire ants and bed bugs. Pest activity varies by season and local conditions. As a high pest pressure state, year-round preventive treatment is recommended.
Legal Reference: Hawaii Pesticides Law (HRS Chapter 149A)

Source: CDC vector-borne disease surveillance, EPA pesticide regulation data, Hawaii pest control board, NPMA pest prevalence maps. Inspection cost estimates reflect typical market rates and may vary by provider, property size, and location. This information is for general guidance only.

Mold Risk Assessment for 96898

Moderate Risk
45/100
Mold Probability Score
Based on humidity, housing age, flood history & water infrastructure
Avg. Humidity
76%
annual relative humidity
Summer Humidity
73%
Jun–Aug average
Flood Claims
0
FEMA insurance claims
Seasonal Risk

Summer months (June–August) present the highest mold risk in 96898, with average humidity reaching 73%. Indoor humidity can be 10–15% higher in poorly ventilated spaces. Winter humidity drops to 79%, reducing but not eliminating risk.

Why Mold Matters

  • The CDC and EPA identify mold as a significant indoor health hazard. Common symptoms include respiratory irritation, allergic reactions, and asthma exacerbation.
  • Mold begins growing within 24–48 hours on damp surfaces when relative humidity exceeds 60%. Bathrooms, basements, and crawl spaces are most vulnerable.
  • Professional mold remediation costs $1,500–$9,000 on average. Homeowner insurance often excludes mold coverage unless caused by a "covered peril."
  • Homes built before 1980 typically lack modern vapor barriers and ventilation systems, increasing moisture infiltration risk.

Prevention Recommendations

  • Use a dehumidifier to keep indoor humidity below 50%. This is especially important in basements, crawl spaces, and bathrooms in high-humidity areas like 96898.
  • Ensure proper ventilation: use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens, and keep attic and crawl space vents unblocked.
  • Fix leaks immediately. Even small plumbing leaks can create mold-favorable conditions within 48 hours.
  • Monitor indoor humidity with a hygrometer ($10–$20). Target 30–50% year-round.
Recommended: Whole-Home Dehumidifier

With 76% average humidity, a dehumidifier is the most effective way to reduce mold risk in 96898. Energy Star-rated units cost $200–$400 and can reduce humidity by 20–30%.

Compare Dehumidifiers
As an Amazon Associate, ZipCheckup earns from qualifying purchases.
Sources: NOAA Climate Normals 1991–2020 (humidity), U.S. Census ACS (housing age), FEMA NFIP (flood claims), EPA SDWIS (water violations). Score methodology: humidity 40%, housing age 30%, flood history 20%, water infrastructure 10%.

Respiratory Risk Today

Very High Risk
52
Respiratory Risk Score
Combined air quality, humidity & mold risk for 96898
Air Quality
N/A
EPA AQI index
Humidity
17/30
seasonal impact
Mold
14/30
housing + humidity
RISK SCORE 52/100
Low Moderate Severe
High humidity is the top respiratory concern
A whole-home dehumidifier can reduce indoor humidity to the 30–50% comfort zone, reducing mold growth and dust mite populations.
Sources: EPA AirNow (daily AQI), NOAA humidity normals, mold risk model (housing age + humidity + flood history). Updated daily. Score combines air quality (40%), humidity stress (30%), and mold risk (30%).

Superfund Sites & Soil Contamination Risk

0
Very Low Proximity Risk
EPA Superfund NPL site proximity score for 96898
Sites Within 10 km
0
NPL sites within ~6.2 miles
Risk Level
Very Low
based on proximity & site status
Sites Within 25 km
0
NPL sites within ~15.5 miles
SUPERFUND PROXIMITY SCORE 0/100
0 — No nearby sites 100 — Highest Risk

What Are Superfund NPL Sites?

The National Priorities List (NPL) is the EPA's list of the most contaminated sites in the United States. These sites are eligible for federal cleanup funding under CERCLA (the "Superfund" law). Common contaminants include heavy metals, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), pesticides, and industrial solvents that can leach into soil, groundwater, and air.

  • Active Cleanup: EPA is investigating or remediating the site — contamination may still be present.
  • Construction Complete: Physical cleanup is done, but long-term monitoring continues.
  • Deleted: Site meets EPA cleanup standards and has been removed from the NPL.

Know What's in Your Soil

If you live near a Superfund site, a home soil test kit can detect heavy metals, lead, and other contaminants — especially important if you garden, have children, or use well water.

Product links may earn a commission — see our disclosure.

📊 EPA Superfund National Priorities List (NPL) · Updated March 2026 · View source →
Home & Infrastructure (2) OK

Home Buyer Risk Report

An inspection-grade snapshot of public-data risk factors for this ZIP, built to help a buyer decide what to verify before closing.

8/100
Home Purchase Risk Score
Very Low Risk

Public federal data shows few elevated risk factors for this ZIP. A standard home inspection before closing is still an important step.

Seven-factor inspection checklist

Each factor below is scored 0–100 from public federal data. A higher score means the factor is more worth verifying before you buy.

Water quality · 25% of score

The local water system's recent EPA violation and contaminant history, along with an independent tap-water test, gives more context.

No flag
Flood · 20% of score

The FEMA flood zone, whether the property has flooded before, and flood-insurance requirements are key points to review.

No flag
Radon · 10% of score

The EPA recommends testing every home for radon; homes in EPA Radon Zone 1 have the highest potential.

No flag

Nearby hazards

15%

Modeled probability of a local water-service disruption in the next 90 days.

See the 90-day disruption outlook

Inspection-day checklist

Practical items to raise with your inspector, agent, or the seller — tailored to this ZIP's data.

  • Hire an independent home inspector for a full walkthrough of the property.
  • Read the seller's disclosure and any past inspection or repair records.
  • Ask for service records for the HVAC system, water heater, and roof.

What this means

  • This report consolidates seven home-purchase risk factors and nearby hazards from public federal data into one place.
  • Each flagged item is a recommendation to verify independently — not a finding of a defect.
  • An independent home inspection remains an essential step before closing.

Methodology: The report combines the home purchase risk score — a seven-factor composite of public federal data — with EPA Superfund, ATSDR, water-disruption, and NRC nuclear-zone proximity datasets. All figures are modeled estimates.

Informational only. This is a modeled summary of public federal data, not a home inspection, an appraisal, or a prediction of defects. Verify any concern with a qualified inspector before a purchase.

📊 EPA, FEMA, U.S. Census, NRC · Updated May 2026

Remodeling Permit Requirements in Hawaii

⚠ Strict Permit Enforcement
What Requires a Permit

Structural, electrical, plumbing, mechanical. All work except minor repairs and cosmetic changes.

Typical Permit Cost
$200 – $3000
Based on Hawaii fee schedules
Penalty for Non-Compliance

Fines up to $2,000/day, stop-work orders, mandatory removal of unpermitted work

Legal Reference: HRS §107-24; County building codes

Why This Matters

  • Unpermitted work can reduce your home's appraised value by 10–20% and complicate or block a sale entirely.
  • Homeowner insurance may deny claims for damage caused by or related to unpermitted renovations.
  • Buyers' lenders may require proof of permits before approving a mortgage, especially for kitchens, bathrooms, and structural changes.
  • Unpermitted electrical and plumbing work is a leading cause of house fires and water damage — permits exist to ensure safety inspections.
  • If you are planning remodeling work in Hawaii, contact your local building department before starting any project that alters structure, electrical, plumbing, or mechanical systems.

Remodeling Permit Questions for 96898

What remodeling work requires a permit in Hawaii?

In Hawaii, permits are generally required for any work that alters the structure, electrical wiring, plumbing, or mechanical systems of a home. This includes kitchen and bathroom renovations involving plumbing or electrical changes, wall removal, room additions, window enlargements, re-roofing, and HVAC replacement. Purely cosmetic work — painting, flooring, cabinet refacing without plumbing changes — typically does not require a permit. Always check with your local building department, as municipal requirements may be stricter than state minimums.

What happens if I remodel without a permit in Hawaii?

Working without a required permit in Hawaii can result in Fines up to $2,000/day, stop-work orders, mandatory removal of unpermitted work. Beyond legal penalties, unpermitted work creates problems when selling: buyers' home inspectors and appraisers flag unpermitted additions, lenders may refuse financing, and title companies may require permits to be obtained retroactively — often at 2–3 times the original permit fee. In serious cases, you may be required to open walls for inspection or demolish non-compliant work.

How much does a remodeling permit cost in Hawaii?

Remodeling permit fees in Hawaii typically range from $200 to $3000, depending on the scope and value of the project. Most jurisdictions calculate fees as a percentage of the project's estimated construction cost (usually 1–2%) or use a flat fee schedule based on project type. Electrical and plumbing sub-permits may be billed separately. Contact your local building department for an exact fee quote before starting work.

Permit requirements based on Hawaii building codes and ICC adoption data. Costs reflect typical municipal fee schedules and may vary by jurisdiction, project scope, and valuation. This information is for general guidance only — contact your local building department for requirements specific to your project.

Cost & Community (4) OK

Tax Burden in Hawaii

State tax rates affect cost of ownership. Here's how Hawaii compares to national averages.

Income Tax
11.0%
top marginal rate
US avg: 5.3%
Sales Tax
4.5%
combined avg
US avg: 6.6%
Property Tax
0.26%
effective rate
US avg: 0.98%
Sales Tax Breakdown
State rate: 4.00%
Avg local add-on: 0.50%

Lowest effective property tax rate

Source: Tax Foundation 2024. Income tax = top marginal rate. Sales tax = state + avg local. Property tax = effective rate on home value.

Energy Costs in Hawaii

Residential electricity rate: 39.79¢/kWh134% above the national average (national avg: 17.0¢/kWh · EIA, December 2025)

Hawaii Energy Mix

Solar 10.3% Wind 6.1% Hydro 0.9% Geothermal 2.7% Petroleum 74.5%
Renewable energy
20.0%
Clean energy (incl. nuclear)
20.0%

Source: EIA Form 923, 2025 data. Renewable = solar + wind + hydro + geothermal.

📊 EIA + Census ACS · Updated March 2026 · View source →

Electric Utility for 96898

Provider
Hawaiian Electric Co Inc
Investor Owned
Residential Rate
42.9¢/kWh
State avg: 39.8¢/kWh

Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration, Form EIA-861 (2024 data). EIA ID: 19547.

Home Energy Audit for 96898

IRA Energy Incentives Are Time-Limited

The Inflation Reduction Act provides up to $8,000 in rebates and $3,200 in annual tax credits for home energy upgrades — but many provisions phase down or expire after 2032. A professional energy audit is the first step to qualifying for these incentives.

Electricity Rate
42.9¢/kWh
State avg: 39.8¢/kWh (134% above U.S. avg)
Est. Annual Energy Cost
$4,178
based on avg U.S. household (10,500 kWh/yr)
Renewable Energy
20%
of Hawaii's electricity from renewables
Potential Annual Savings
$209–$627
5–15% savings from energy audit

What a Home Energy Audit Covers

Thermal Envelope
  • Insulation levels in attic, walls, and basement
  • Air leaks around windows, doors, and ducts
  • Blower door test (measures total air leakage)
Equipment & Systems
  • HVAC efficiency and age assessment
  • Water heater type and condition
  • Lighting and appliance energy use
Safety Checks
  • Carbon monoxide and combustion safety
  • Moisture and ventilation assessment
  • Gas leak detection
Deliverables
  • Prioritized list of recommended upgrades
  • Estimated cost and savings for each upgrade
  • Rebate and tax credit eligibility report
Potential Savings from an Energy Audit
  • The average home energy audit identifies $200–$400/year in savings (DOE)
  • Properly sealed and insulated homes save 15% on heating and cooling costs (DOE)
  • Heat pump upgrades can reduce heating costs by 30–50% compared to electric resistance
  • ENERGY STAR certified windows save $101–$583/year compared to single-pane windows
  • Weatherization assistance programs are available for income-qualifying households
Your Utility: Hawaiian Electric Co Inc

Hawaiian Electric Co Inc (Investor-owned) serves 96898. Your local residential rate is 42.9¢/kWh , which is above the national average — making energy efficiency improvements even more valuable . Many utilities offer additional rebates on top of federal IRA incentives — ask your energy auditor about programs from Hawaiian Electric Co Inc.

Federal & State Incentives
IRA Tax Credits (IRC §25C) — up to $3,200/year
$2,000 — Heat pump / heat pump water heater
$1,600 — Insulation & air sealing
$600 — Windows & doors
$150 — Home energy audit itself
IRA Rebates (HEEHRA — income-qualified)
Up to $8,000 — Heat pump installation
Up to $1,600 — Insulation & air sealing
Up to $2,500 — Electrical panel upgrade
Up to $840 — Heat pump clothes dryer
30% tax credit for solar panels — extended through 2032 under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRC §25D). No annual cap for residential solar.

Under the Inflation Reduction Act. Income limits apply for HEEHRA rebates. Tax credits require tax liability. IRS details →

DOE Home Energy Audit Standards

To claim the $150 federal tax credit, your energy audit must meet DOE standards (10 CFR 440.21) and be performed by a qualified auditor. A DOE-compliant audit includes:

  • Blower door test to measure air infiltration
  • Infrared thermography to identify insulation gaps
  • Combustion safety testing for gas appliances
  • Written report with prioritized, cost-effective upgrade recommendations

Energy Audit Questions for 96898

How much does a home energy audit cost?

A professional home energy audit typically costs $150–$400 depending on the size of your home and the depth of testing. The Inflation Reduction Act provides a $150 tax credit for qualifying audits performed by a certified auditor, effectively covering a significant portion of the audit cost. Some utilities also subsidize audits for their customers — check with Hawaiian Electric Co Inc for local programs.

What is the difference between an energy audit and a home inspection?

A home inspection (done during a home sale) evaluates structural and safety conditions. An energy audit specifically measures how your home uses energy and identifies efficiency improvements. Energy audits use specialized tools like blower doors, infrared cameras, and duct blasters that are not part of a standard home inspection. The audit produces a prioritized list of upgrades with estimated costs and savings.

How much can I save after an energy audit?

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average audit identifies $200–$400/year in savings. Actual savings depend on your home's age, current insulation, HVAC efficiency, and local energy rates. At current rates in Hawaii, the average home spends approximately $4,178/year on electricity — a 15–25% reduction through audit-recommended upgrades could save $627–$1,045 annually.

What rebates and tax credits are available for energy upgrades?

The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) provides two types of incentives: (1) Tax credits up to $3,200/year for heat pumps ($2,000), insulation ($1,600), windows ($600), and the audit itself ($150); and (2) HEEHRA rebates for income-qualifying households — up to $8,000 for heat pumps, $1,600 for insulation, $2,500 for electrical panels, and $840 for heat pump dryers. Solar panels qualify for a separate 30% tax credit through 2032.

Do I need an energy audit before installing solar panels?

An energy audit is not legally required before installing solar, but the DOE strongly recommends it. Reducing your home's energy consumption before adding solar means you need a smaller (cheaper) system to cover your needs. An audit typically identifies 15–30% in energy reductions through insulation, air sealing, and HVAC improvements — which directly reduces the size and cost of a solar installation.

How long does a home energy audit take?

A comprehensive energy audit takes 2–4 hours for a typical single-family home. The auditor will inspect the attic, basement, walls, windows, HVAC system, water heater, and ductwork. Diagnostic tests (blower door, infrared scan) add precision to the findings. You will receive a written report within 1–2 weeks with prioritized recommendations and estimated costs.

Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (P.L. 117-169).

Recent Product Recalls

Recent CPSC recalls for plumbing and HVAC products that may affect homes in your area.

Superbobi 7 3/8 Inch Pool Drain Covers
Shenzhen Jiangtou Technology Co. · 2026-05-14

Electric Kettles (ENFINIGY 1.5 l and ENFINIGY Pro 1.5 l)
ZWILLING J. A. Henckels Aktiengesellschaft · 2026-05-14

Electric Start Pressure Washers
Generac Power Systems Expands · 2026-05-14

1-K Kerosene Heater Fluid Portable Fuel Containers
Alliance Chemical · 2026-04-30

View all recalls →

📊 CPSC · Updated March 2026 · View source →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tap water in 96898 safe to drink?

Based on EPA SDWIS data, Wake Island's primary water system (Kekaha-waimea) has 0 recorded violations in the past 5 years, including 0 health-based. Check the full report above for details.

Where does 96898's water come from?

The primary water source for ZIP code 96898 is Groundwater. Kekaha-waimea serves approximately 5,998 people.

How can I get my water tested in Wake Island?

Contact your local water utility (Kekaha-waimea) for a free Consumer Confidence Report, or hire a certified lab for independent home water testing. The EPA recommends annual testing if you use a private well.

What is the radon risk for 96898?

96898 falls in EPA Radon Zone 3 (Low risk), located in Kauai County. Zone 1 indicates the highest radon potential. Testing your home is recommended regardless of zone.

What contaminants were found in ZIP 96898 water?

According to the most recent Consumer Confidence Report, 9 contaminants were detected. The top contaminants include Alpha Emitters (13 pCi/L). See the full water quality breakdown above.

Nearby ZIP Code Reports

Water quality comparison for ZIP codes near 96898

ZIP Code City, State Distance Grade Violations
96769 Makaweli, HI 2166.1 mi B 0
96752 Kekaha, HI 2179.0 mi B 0
96796 Waimea, HI 2182.2 mi C 0
96747 Kaumakani, HI 2185.2 mi A 0
96716 Hanapepe, HI 2187.2 mi C 0
96705 Eleele, HI 2187.8 mi C 0
96714 Hanalei, HI 2189.7 mi B 0
96741 Kalaheo, HI 2191.2 mi A 0
96765 Lawai, HI 2193.2 mi B 0
96722 Princeville, HI 2193.5 mi B 0

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Coverage: 11/17 risk factors Data sources →
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