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PFAS in Plymouth Water

Based on Environment Agency monitoring data. Last updated 10 August 2026.

According to TapWater.uk's analysis, 15 PFAS compounds have been detected across 7 sampling points in Plymouth. The highest recorded level is 0.063 µg/L (6:2 FTSA).

Compounds detected

15

Sampling points

7

Highest level

0.063 µg/L

Latest date

10 August 2026


<0.01 µg/L
0.01–0.075 µg/L
>0.075 µg/L

PFAS levels over time

Monthly aggregate PFAS levels. Dashed line shows WHO guideline (0.1 µg/L).


Compounds detected

6:2 FTSA
0.0630 µg/L
PFBS
0.0200 µg/L
PFOS (total)
0.0089 µg/L
PFOS (linear)
0.0063 µg/L
PFBA
0.0057 µg/L
PFPeA
0.0056 µg/L
PFOA
0.0053 µg/L
PFHxS (linear)
0.0050 µg/L
PFHxA
0.0047 µg/L
FBSA
0.0045 µg/L
PFHpA
0.0036 µg/L
PFOS (branched)
0.0031 µg/L
PFHxS (branched)
0.0011 µg/L
PFPeS
0.0007 µg/L
PFOS
0.0002 µg/L

Dashed line = WHO guideline (0.1 µg/L). Bar shows maximum detected level.


Sampling points

Environment Agency monitoring locations near Plymouth.

CHAPLINS (DIY STORE)
0.009 µg/L
RIVER TIDDY AT TIDEFORD BRIDGE
0.001 µg/L
RIVER LYNHER AT NOTTER BRIDGE BELOW HATT STW
0.001 µg/L
STADDON HEIGHTS GOLF CLUB
0.020 µg/L
PLYMOUTH GARDEN CENTRE CROWNHILL PLYMOUTH PIPE ENTERING STORAGE TANK
0.063 µg/L
SSN0948 LONG BROOK AT UNDERWOOD
0.002 µg/L
RIVER MEAVY AT BURRATOR RESERVOIR SURFACE - ADDITIONAL HISTORIC DATA ON URN R11B028
0.000 µg/L

What this means for your tap water

Important context: the Environment Agency data shown here is from environmental monitoring of rivers and groundwater — not treated tap water. PFAS detected in source water does not necessarily mean the same levels are present in the water that comes out of your tap.

Water treatment processes can reduce PFAS concentrations, though the effectiveness varies by treatment method and PFAS compound. UK water companies are not required to publish PFAS removal rates. If you are concerned, a reverse osmosis filter offers the most reliable protection at home.


How to reduce PFAS exposure

A reverse osmosis system is the most effective way to remove PFAS from your drinking water at home, eliminating over 95% of forever chemicals.

Removes >95% of PFAS compounds

Waterdrop G3P600 Reverse Osmosis

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Why it fits
  • Removes 12+ contaminants including PFAS and fluoride
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  • Smart TDS monitoring panel shows real-time water quality
Trade-offs
  • Professional installation recommended — plumbing required
  • Higher upfront cost than any jug or tap filter

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PFAS data for nearby cities


Check your postcode

Get a detailed water quality report for your exact area in Plymouth.


Frequently asked questions

Has PFAS been found in Plymouth water?

Yes. Environment Agency monitoring has detected 15 PFAS compounds across 7 sampling points in water sources near Plymouth. The highest recorded level is 0.063 µg/L (6:2 FTSA). Note that this is environmental monitoring of rivers and groundwater, not treated tap water.

What PFAS compounds were found in Plymouth?

The following PFAS compounds have been detected near Plymouth: PFHxS (branched), PFPeS, PFBA, PFBS, PFHpA, PFHxS (linear), PFOS (branched), PFPeA, PFOA, PFHxA, PFOS (linear), 6:2 FTSA, FBSA, PFOS, PFOS (total). 6:2 FTSA was recorded at the highest level of 0.063 µg/L.

Is Plymouth tap water safe to drink despite PFAS?

Plymouth tap water meets all current UK legal standards. However, the UK has no legal limit for PFAS in drinking water. The Environment Agency data shows PFAS in source water (rivers and groundwater), not in treated tap water. Water treatment may reduce PFAS levels, but the extent of removal is not publicly reported.

How can I remove PFAS from my water in Plymouth?

The most effective method is a reverse osmosis (RO) filtration system, which removes over 95% of PFAS compounds. Standard carbon filters and jug filters like BRITA do not effectively remove PFAS. An under-sink RO system is recommended for Plymouth households concerned about PFAS exposure.

PFAS data from the Environment Agency Water Quality Archive. Environmental monitoring of rivers and groundwater near Plymouth — not treated tap water. Last updated 10 August 2026. See our methodology.