Tap water quality in Plymouth
Plymouth is estimated to have soft water (~50 mg/L CaCO₃), and all tested parameters are within UK drinking water limits.
Supplied by South West Water · South West Water E01034160 · Based on DWI laboratory analysis
Nitrates
3.51mg/L
Chlorine
0.98mg/L
Water hardness
EstimatedEstimated: Soft (~50 mg/L CaCO₃)
Based on typical regional geology in Devon. Lab-tested data for this specific supply zone is not yet available.
All tested parameters are within safe drinking water limits
For the analytes shown, reported values are within UK drinking water standards. This does not replace your supplier's formal water quality report.
How readings compare to limits
Nitrates
3.51 mg/L
PCV / limit: 50 mg/L
Chlorine
0.98 mg/L
No UK limit · WHO guideline 5 mg/L
What these readings mean
UK drinking water is regulated under the Water Supply (Water Quality) Regulations 2016, which set a prescribed concentration value (PCV) for each substance. South West Water must sample against these and report the results to the Drinking Water Inspectorate.
Nitrates in Plymouth
3.51 mg/L·UK limit 50 mg/L
Nitrates come mainly from agricultural fertiliser and sewage reaching groundwater. Healthy adults process them without difficulty; the limit exists principally to protect bottle-fed infants under six months.
Chlorine in Plymouth
0.98 mg/L·UK limit no statutory limit
Added as a disinfectant and required to remain present through the network to keep water safe in transit. Typically 0.2–0.5 mg/L at the tap. A noticeable taste is usually harmless and fades if water stands in a covered jug.
Common questions about Plymouth tap water
Is Plymouth tap water safe to drink?
Yes. Plymouth tap water is supplied by South West Water and every parameter we hold (nitrates 3.51 mg/L and chlorine 0.98 mg/L) falls within UK drinking water standards set by the Drinking Water Inspectorate. Readings vary by supply zone, so check your exact postcode for local results.
Is Plymouth hard or soft water?
Plymouth is estimated to have soft water. Based on local geology, hardness is estimated at around 50 mg/L CaCO₃, which would be classed as soft on the UK scale. Lab CaCO₃ data for the supply zone is not yet published.
What is the water hardness in Plymouth?
Water hardness in Plymouth is estimated at around 50 mg/L CaCO₃ (soft), based on local geology. At this level limescale is not usually a problem.
Who supplies the tap water in Plymouth?
Tap water in Plymouth is supplied by South West Water. They are responsible for treatment, distribution and the laboratory testing reported to the Drinking Water Inspectorate.
Sewage spills in Plymouth
Official Environment Agency storm overflow data near the town centre.
Check your postcode
Look up any UK address for lab results and nearby overflows.