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PFAS in Wigan Water

Based on Environment Agency monitoring data. Last updated 27 July 2026.

According to TapWater.uk's analysis, 20 PFAS compounds have been detected across 9 sampling points in Wigan. The highest recorded level is 0.092 µg/L (PFBS).

Compounds detected

20

Sampling points

9

Highest level

0.092 µg/L

Latest date

27 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

PFBS
0.0920 µg/L
6:2 FTSA
0.0390 µg/L
PFHpA
0.0300 µg/L
PFOA
0.0290 µg/L
PFPeA
0.0280 µg/L
PFHxA
0.0270 µg/L
PFBA
0.0170 µg/L
6:6 PFPi
0.0130 µg/L
PFOS (linear)
0.0100 µg/L
6:2 FtSAB
0.0067 µg/L
PFOS
0.0064 µg/L
PFTeDA
0.0051 µg/L
PFOS (branched)
0.0047 µg/L
FBSA
0.0041 µg/L
PFOS (total)
0.0041 µg/L
PFHxS (linear)
0.0039 µg/L
5:3 FTCA
0.0029 µg/L
PFNA
0.0014 µg/L
PFHxS (branched)
0.0009 µg/L
PFPeS
0.0007 µg/L

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


Sampling points

Environment Agency monitoring locations near Wigan.

RSN0216 MIDDLE BROOK D/S LADYBRIDGE LN FOOTBRIDGE
0.007 µg/L
RIVER DOUGLAS AT WANES BLADES BRIDGE
0.047 µg/L
PRIORS WOOD HALL FARM SD50/52
0.005 µg/L
HOUGHWOOD GOLF CLUB, ST HELENS
0.004 µg/L
RSN1856 RAINFORD BROOK AT BEECH GARDENS
0.092 µg/L
HAYDOCK PARK RACE COURSE ABH. SJ59/181
0.030 µg/L
HALL O'TH'HILL FARM BOREHOLE WRB NO SD61/90
0.039 µg/L
DEANWOOD GOLF CLUB BH SD50/53
0.002 µg/L
RSN0552 AMBERSWOOD STREAM AT SEAMAN WAY
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

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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 Wigan.


Frequently asked questions

Has PFAS been found in Wigan water?

Yes. Environment Agency monitoring has detected 20 PFAS compounds across 9 sampling points in water sources near Wigan. The highest recorded level is 0.092 µg/L (PFBS). Note that this is environmental monitoring of rivers and groundwater, not treated tap water.

What PFAS compounds were found in Wigan?

The following PFAS compounds have been detected near Wigan: PFOS, PFOA, 6:2 FTSA, PFHxA, PFNA, PFOS (branched), PFOS (linear), PFPeA, PFHxS (linear), PFBA, PFHpA, PFBS, FBSA, 5:3 FTCA, PFTeDA, PFPeS, PFHxS (branched), PFOS (total), 6:2 FtSAB, 6:6 PFPi. PFBS was recorded at the highest level of 0.092 µg/L.

Is Wigan tap water safe to drink despite PFAS?

Wigan 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 Wigan?

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 Wigan households concerned about PFAS exposure.

PFAS data from the Environment Agency Water Quality Archive. Environmental monitoring of rivers and groundwater near Wigan — not treated tap water. Last updated 27 July 2026. See our methodology.