Wake Island, HI (96898): No EPA Water System
No EPA-registered water system mapped - county-level context only
The directly mapped EPA record for 96898 in Wake Island, HI does not contain a complete violation count and source window. ZipCheckup does not infer a clean record from missing or partial data.
Data source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) SDWIS
At a Glance
- Water No EPA violations on record for the past 5 years.
- Radon EPA Zone 3 - lower county-level potential, not evidence of a low home result.
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.
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
Get notified when water quality changes in your area
Free alerts when new EPA data affects ZIP code 96898. No spam - just safety updates.
Unsubscribe anytime. We only send updates when your safety score changes. See our Privacy Policy.
Limited data available for ZIP 96898
This ZIP code has fewer data sources than average. We show everything we have from EPA, FEMA, Census, and other federal databases. As new data becomes available, this report will update automatically.
How Wake Island Compares
Safety Score vs. Kauai County and Hawaii averages
| Metric | Wake Island | Kauai County | Hawaii |
|---|---|---|---|
| EPA Violations (total) | 0 | — | 0.3 |
County and state averages computed from 41,345 ZIP codes. Data: EPA SDWIS.
See incorrect data? Let us know
Score Breakdown
Overall Home Safety Score: Score unavailable
Required evidence is missing. Missing values remain unknown and are not imputed or renormalized.
Canonical components
Required domains
Coverage: 0 of 4 components and 0 of 3 domains observed.
Model 4.0.0; series home-safety-v4-cross-vertical.
Safety & Health (2) MODERATE
No EPA Water System Mapped to This ZIP
ZIP code 96898 in Wake Island, Hawaii has no community water system directly registered with the EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS). This typically means residents rely on private wells, shared small systems that don't meet EPA reporting thresholds, or are served by a neighboring district that hasn't been cross-referenced to this ZIP.
The information below reflects county-level context for Wake Island, Hawaii - including any EPA violations, environmental hazards, or demographic factors that affect home safety in the surrounding area. It is not a water quality report for a specific utility.
If you know your water provider, search directly for its PWSID or name, or use the state SDWIS lookup to find the system serving your address.
Lead & Copper in Your Water
No Lead & Copper Rule sampling data available for systems serving this ZIP code.
Radon Risk
Radon Zone 3 - Lower county-level potential (Kauai County)
EPA Zone 3 indicates lower county-level radon potential, not a low result for a home. Testing is needed before any threshold comparison.
Violation Summary
Energy Costs in HI
Residential electricity rate: 46.62¢/kWh - 174% 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 FilterFree tip: Let cold water run for 2 minutes before drinking — this helps flush lead from your pipes.
What You Can Do
- Review your annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) - Your utility publishes this each July
- Test your home's water - Especially if you have older plumbing (pre-1986) that may contain lead
- 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 FilterFree tip: Let cold water run for 2 minutes before drinking — this helps flush lead from your pipes.
Other Water Quality Reports in Hawaii
- 96701 (Aiea)
- 96703 (Anahola)
- 96704 (Captain Cook)
- 96705 (Eleele)
- 96706 (Ewa Beach)
- 96707 (Kapolei)
- 96708 (Haiku)
- 96709 (Kapolei)
- 96710 (Hakalau)
- 96712 (Haleiwa)
- 96713 (Hana)
- 96714 (Hanalei)
- 96715 (Hanamaulu)
- 96716 (Hanapepe)
- 96717 (Hauula)
- 96718 (Hawaii National Park)
- 96719 (Hawi)
- 96720 (Hilo)
- 96721 (Hilo)
- 96722 (Princeville)
Nearby Water Quality Reports
- 96769 (Makaweli) - 2166 mi
- 96752 (Kekaha) - 2179 mi
- 96796 (Waimea) - 2182 mi
- 96747 (Kaumakani) - 2185 mi
- 96716 (Hanapepe) - 2187 mi
- 96705 (Eleele) - 2188 mi
- 96714 (Hanalei) - 2190 mi
- 96741 (Kalaheo) - 2191 mi
- 96765 (Lawai) - 2193 mi
- 96722 (Princeville) - 2194 mi
Data Sources
This report uses public data from the EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS). No EPA-registered water system is mapped to ZIP 96898. To look up the system serving a specific address, use the state SDWIS search tool.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the tap water in 96898 safe to drink?
No EPA-registered public water system is mapped to ZIP 96898, so there is no federal water quality record to assess. Residents in this area are typically served by private wells or very small systems below EPA reporting thresholds. If you rely on a private well, the CDC recommends testing it at least once a year for bacteria, nitrates, and any local contaminants of concern.
Where does 96898's water come from?
There is no community water system directly registered with the EPA for ZIP 96898. Most residents in this area rely on private wells drawing from groundwater, or are served by a neighboring district that isn't cross-referenced to this ZIP in federal data. Check with your local county health department to confirm your water source.
How can I get my water tested?
Since no EPA-registered water utility is mapped to ZIP 96898, contact your local county health department or hire a certified lab for independent home water testing. The EPA recommends testing private wells at least once a year for bacteria, nitrates, and any local contaminants of concern.
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.
Lead Pipe Replacement Funding for Hawaii
Key LCRI Deadlines
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.
Environmental Hazards (5) HIGH
Termite Risk for 96898
Very Heavy Termite ZoneRequired for VA/FHA loans statewide; extremely high risk due to Formosan subterranean termites year-round
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.
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 Pressuretermites, mosquitoes, cockroaches, fire ants and bed bugs
- Dengue activity zone
Required for VA loans in all states; termite inspection standard in conventional sales
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
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
High RiskSummer 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.
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%.
Respiratory Risk Snapshot
Very High RiskSuperfund Sites & Soil Contamination 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.
Paid Partner Product links may earn a commission - see our disclosure.
Home & Infrastructure (1) OK
Remodeling Permit Requirements in Hawaii
⚠ Strict Permit EnforcementStructural, electrical, plumbing, mechanical. All work except minor repairs and cosmetic changes.
Fines up to $2,000/day, stop-work orders, mandatory removal of unpermitted work
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 (2) OK
Tax Burden in Hawaii
State tax rates affect cost of ownership. Here's how Hawaii compares to national averages.
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: 46.62¢/kWh - 174% above the national average (national avg: 17.0¢/kWh · EIA, December 2025)
Hawaii Energy Mix
Source: EIA Form 923, 2025 data. Renewable = solar + wind + hydro + geothermal.
Home Energy Audit for 96898
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.
What a Home Energy Audit Covers
- Insulation levels in attic, walls, and basement
- Air leaks around windows, doors, and ducts
- Blower door test (measures total air leakage)
- HVAC efficiency and age assessment
- Water heater type and condition
- Lighting and appliance energy use
- Carbon monoxide and combustion safety
- Moisture and ventilation assessment
- Gas leak detection
- Prioritized list of recommended upgrades
- Estimated cost and savings for each upgrade
- Rebate and tax credit eligibility report
- 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
Under the Inflation Reduction Act. Income limits apply for HEEHRA rebates. Tax credits require tax liability. IRS details →
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.
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 $4,895/year on electricity - a 15–25% reduction through audit-recommended upgrades could save $734–$1,224 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.
Madewell Double V-Neck Pullover and V-Neck Cardigan Sweaters
Topyond Pool Drain Port with Cover
XW-A17 Electric Youth All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the tap water in 96898 safe to drink?
No EPA-registered public water system is mapped to ZIP 96898, so there is no federal water quality record to assess. Residents in this area typically rely on private wells or very small systems below EPA reporting thresholds. If you rely on a private well, the CDC recommends testing it at least once a year. ZipCheckup last updated this page in July 2026. The federal source release date is unavailable, so that month is not presented as source currency.
Where does 96898's water come from?
There is no community water system directly registered with the EPA for ZIP 96898. Most residents rely on private wells drawing from groundwater, or are served by a neighboring district that isn't cross-referenced to this ZIP in federal data. Check with your local county health department to confirm your source.
How does Wake Island water compare to the national average?
Wake Island's water quality ranks in the bottom 56% of U.S. ZIP codes, and in the bottom 91% within Hawaii.
How can I get my water tested in Wake Island?
Since no EPA-registered water utility is mapped to ZIP 96898, contact your local county health department or hire a certified lab for independent home water testing. The EPA recommends testing private wells at least once a year.
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.
How to cite this page
ZipCheckup. (2026). Wake Island, HI (96898): No EPA Water System. https://zipcheckup.com/report/96898/
@misc{zipcheckup-report-96898,
author = {{ZipCheckup}},
title = {{Wake Island, HI (96898): No EPA Water System}},
year = {2026},
url = {https://zipcheckup.com/report/96898/}
}
Page version: August 2026.
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 | N/A | 0 |
| 96752 | Kekaha, HI | 2179.0 mi | N/A | 0 |
| 96796 | Waimea, HI | 2182.2 mi | N/A | 0 |
| 96747 | Kaumakani, HI | 2185.2 mi | N/A | 0 |
| 96716 | Hanapepe, HI | 2187.2 mi | N/A | 0 |
| 96705 | Eleele, HI | 2187.8 mi | N/A | 0 |
| 96714 | Hanalei, HI | 2189.7 mi | N/A | 0 |
| 96741 | Kalaheo, HI | 2191.2 mi | N/A | 0 |
| 96765 | Lawai, HI | 2193.2 mi | N/A | 0 |
| 96722 | Princeville, HI | 2193.5 mi | N/A | 0 |
Nearby ZIP Code Reports
2026 Rankings for Your Area
Overall safety breakdown
Home Safety Score →Find the right water filter
Water Filter Matcher →Compare filters, tests & services
Compare My Options →Compare with another ZIP
Compare Tool →2026 Rankings