Hawaii plumbing faces salt air, humidity and high water and energy costs. Corrosion of exposed metal fittings, outdoor fixtures and water heater components happens faster near the ocean.
Hawaii has required solar water heating on most new single-family homes since 2010, so many homes have solar systems with storage tanks, pumps and controllers that need specialized service. On parts of the Big Island, households rely on rainwater catchment systems.
Plumbing services we provide in Hawaii
These are the services Hawaii homeowners call about most often, based on the conditions above.
Water Heater Repair
Water heater repair restores a tank or tankless water heater to safe, normal operation by fixing components such as thermostats, heating elements, burners, valves and controls.
Water Heater Repair details →
Pipe Repair
Pipe repair is fixing a damaged section of a home's water supply or drain piping, from a pinhole leak or failed fitting to a split caused by freezing.
Pipe Repair details →
Water Softeners & Filtration
Water treatment in a home includes water softeners, which remove hardness minerals, and filtration systems, which reduce specific contaminants, sediment, chlorine or odors.
Water Softeners & Filtration details →
Leak Detection
Leak detection is the process of locating a hidden water leak, in a wall, ceiling, slab or underground line, with as little demolition as possible.
Leak Detection details →Local conditions that affect plumbing in Hawaii
Salt-air corrosion
Exposed fittings, hose bibs and outdoor equipment corrode faster near the coast.
Solar water heaters
Solar systems need periodic checks of panels, pumps, controllers and backup elements.
Catchment systems
Rainwater catchment requires filtration, disinfection and tank maintenance.
City plumbing guides in Hawaii
Plumbing emergency in Hawaii?
- Shut off the main water valve if water is leaking or a pipe has burst.
- Keep away from water near outlets, cords or the electrical panel.
- If sewage is backing up, stop using every drain in the house.
- If you smell gas, leave the building and call the gas utility or 911 from outside.
Hawaii plumbing questions
Why does my Hawaii solar water heater run out of hot water?
Cloudy weather, a failed circulation pump or controller, or a faulty backup element can reduce hot water. A plumber familiar with solar systems can diagnose it.
How should catchment water be treated in Hawaii?
Catchment systems typically need sediment filtration and disinfection, such as UV, plus regular tank cleaning. Test the water periodically.
Are cesspools being phased out in Hawaii?
Yes. Hawaii law requires cesspools to be upgraded or converted by 2050, and some properties face earlier requirements at sale. Check current state Department of Health rules.
Do new Hawaii homes need solar water heaters?
Hawaii generally requires solar water heating on new single-family homes, with limited exceptions, so solar collectors and storage tanks are common.
Why does plumbing corrode so fast in Hawaii?
Salt air attacks exposed metal pipe, fittings and fixtures, especially near the ocean. Corrosion-resistant materials and coatings extend their life.
Is Hawaii water hard?
Generally soft to moderately hard, depending on the island and aquifer. Most municipal water comes from groundwater.
How do I prepare Hawaii plumbing for a hurricane?
Know your shutoffs, secure solar collectors and outdoor equipment, and store drinking water in case service is interrupted.
Can termites affect plumbing in Hawaii?
Indirectly. Termite-damaged framing can loosen pipe supports and stress fittings, so pipes should be checked when damage is repaired.
