Mayor Col Murray has applauded the water-wise efforts of Tamworth, Moonbi and Kootingal residents.

"Top marks to both businesses and the community for being so responsible with their water use," Cr Murray said.

"The proof of the pudding will be when the weather warms up, and what impact that will have on our current usage."

Although Level 1 water restrictions were first introduced at the start of the year, it wasn't until March, when Level 3 restrictions came in to force, that the city's water consumption began to see significant reductions.

Within two months, daily water use had reduced by an average of six megalitres, to 19.5 megalitres at the end of April.

Cr Murray said the use of sprinklers were banned at Level 3, which made a "big impact".

Residents have continued to tighten the belt since Level 4 restrictions were introduced at the start of May, with daily water use consistently sitting a megalitre or two below the 18.5 megalitre goal.

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Currently, water use is sitting at just above 16 megalitres a day.

Tamworth, Moonbi and Kootingal are expected to hit Level 5 restrictions in a matter of four to six weeks, when Chaffey Dam hits 20 per cent.

Under Level 5, the daily goal is 16.1 megalitres, which Cr Murray said the city was ready for given the current usage.

"With the hot weather, the other thing we need to consider is how much more will be lost in transmission," he said.

"The city is using about 16 or 17 megalitres a day, but we need to release 24 megalitres from Chaffey. That's where the new pipeline will help."

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