11km of water mains between Oughterby and Wigton are being upgraded as part of a £4 million project.
The scheme will replace mains with more durable and flexible pipes designed to better withstand pressure and temperature changes.
Paul Forshaw, United Utilities’ County Business lead for Water in Cumbria, said: “These projects will play an important role in making our water network more robust and help us deliver a reliable water supply to customers for decades to come.
“We know this type of work can be disruptive and we are doing all we can to keep that to a minimum.”
The five-month project will be delivered in sections, starting in Oughterby and progressing through Wiggonby and Thursby before finishing in Wigton.
It is part of United Utilities’ wider £380 million programme to upgrade more than 925km of water mains across the North West over the next five years.
A similar project is already under way in Dalston, with another planned in Kirkby Stephen starting this month.
United Utilities says it is contacting customers in the affected areas to keep them informed about the works.
The company also reminded customers that all United Utilities’ employees and contract partners carry ID cards and will be able to have their identity checked.
If customers are ever unsure, they are urged to call 0345 672 3723.
Further information about the water mains upgrade is available at www.unitedutilities.com/new-water-pipes.