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PFAS in Southampton Water

Based on Environment Agency monitoring data. Last updated 3 July 2026.

According to TapWater.uk's analysis, 14 PFAS compounds have been detected across 10 sampling points in Southampton. The highest recorded level is 0.012 µg/L (PFPeA).

Compounds detected

14

Sampling points

10

Highest level

0.012 µg/L

Latest date

3 July 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

PFPeA
0.0120 µg/L
PFOS
0.0110 µg/L
PFHxA
0.0110 µg/L
PFHpA
0.0072 µg/L
PFBS
0.0049 µg/L
PFBA
0.0046 µg/L
6:2 FTSA
0.0035 µg/L
PFOA
0.0032 µg/L
PFOS (total)
0.0029 µg/L
PFOS (linear)
0.0020 µg/L
PFHxS (linear)
0.0020 µg/L
6:2 FtSAB
0.0020 µg/L
FBSA
0.0010 µg/L
PFOS (branched)
0.0009 µg/L

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


Sampling points

Environment Agency monitoring locations near Southampton.

TADBURN LAKE AT ROMSEY BY-PASS
0.011 µg/L
RSN0121 MONKS BROOK DOWNSTREAM OF A3090
0.002 µg/L
RIVER ITCHEN AT GATERS MILL
0.003 µg/L
BEAULIEU RIVER AT HARTFORD BRIDGE
0.002 µg/L
RIVER TEST AT TESTWOOD
0.004 µg/L
RIVER BLACKWATER AT NUTSEY BRIDGE
0.001 µg/L
RSN1545 UP STREAM OF DECOY POND FARM
0.002 µg/L
RSN1377 WEST COMMON STREAM AT IMBER WAY
0.006 µg/L
BARGE CANAL AT PLAZA GRILL GAUGING STATION
0.005 µg/L
HATCHET STREAM AT ST LEONARDS
0.012 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
  • Tankless design saves under-sink space
  • 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 Southampton.


Frequently asked questions

Has PFAS been found in Southampton water?

Yes. Environment Agency monitoring has detected 14 PFAS compounds across 10 sampling points in water sources near Southampton. The highest recorded level is 0.012 µg/L (PFPeA). Note that this is environmental monitoring of rivers and groundwater, not treated tap water.

What PFAS compounds were found in Southampton?

The following PFAS compounds have been detected near Southampton: PFOA, PFOS, PFOS (linear), PFHxA, PFHxS (linear), PFBA, 6:2 FTSA, PFOS (branched), FBSA, PFBS, PFPeA, PFOS (total), PFHpA, 6:2 FtSAB. PFPeA was recorded at the highest level of 0.012 µg/L.

Is Southampton tap water safe to drink despite PFAS?

Southampton 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 Southampton?

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 Southampton households concerned about PFAS exposure.

PFAS data from the Environment Agency Water Quality Archive. Environmental monitoring of rivers and groundwater near Southampton — not treated tap water. Last updated 3 July 2026. See our methodology.