In this blog, we will explain what hot water priority is, how it works, its benefits, and how to adjust it for the best results. We will also share helpful links to services like , Air Source Heat Pump in London, and more that can further improve your heating efficiency.
What Is Hot Water Priority in an Air Source Heat Pump?
Hot Water Priority means your heat pump will temporarily stop heating your home and focus all its energy on heating your domestic hot water cylinder.
This helps the heat pump work faster and more efficiently because it directs all its power to one task instead of splitting it between heating and hot water.
Think of it like a traffic system:Instead of dividing the road for two directions at the same time, traffic is paused on one side so cars can move faster on the other side.
Why Hot Water Priority Is Important
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Faster Hot Water HeatingWhen the heat pump focuses only on water heating, your hot water tank reaches the desired temperature quicker.
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Energy EfficiencyThe heat pump does not struggle between two jobs. This saves electricity and reduces energy bills.
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Improved ComfortYou get a reliable hot water supply without sudden temperature drops.
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Longer System LifeLess stress on the system means fewer repairs and a longer lifespan.
How Hot Water Priority Settings Work
Air Source Heat Pumps usually operate at lower temperatures than gas boilers. When heating your home, the water going through radiators might be around 35–45°C. But for hot water, you may need 50–55°C or even higher.
Because hot water needs higher temperatures, the heat pump switches modes to “Hot Water Priority” to reach the target temperature efficiently.
The system works with a three-way valve:
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When heating mode is active → Heat goes to radiators.
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When hot water priority mode is active → Heat goes only to the hot water cylinder.
Once the water is heated, the valve switches back to home heating.
Typical Hot Water Priority Settings
While settings can differ depending on the brand and model, here are the general recommended settings for 2025:
1. Set the Hot Water Temperature to 50–55°C
This is usually enough for hygiene, comfort, and energy efficiency.
2. Choose Heating Timings Wisely
A good schedule might be:
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Morning hot water: 5:30 AM – 7:00 AM
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Evening hot water: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
The heat pump will prioritise hot water during these times.
3. Use Boost Mode Only When Needed
Boost mode heats water more quickly but uses more power, so avoid using it daily.
4. Enable Legionella Protection
Once a week, the heat pump should heat water to 60°C to kill bacteria. This is a safety feature.
Benefits of Using Hot Water Priority for London Homes
London homes often have different insulation levels, sizes, and heating demands. With professional services like Home Insulation in London, you can improve your property’s heat retention and get the maximum benefit from your heat pump.
Here is why hot water priority works so well for London households:
1. Ideal for Well-Insulated Homes
If your home has External Wall Insulation London or Internal Wall Insulation London, it loses heat more slowly.This means switching briefly from heating to hot water will not make your home cold.
2. Works Great With Loft and Roof Insulation
Proper insulation using Loft Insulation London and Room in Roof Insulation London helps maintain stable temperatures, reducing the workload on your heat pump.
3. Lower Running Costs
A well-insulated home + smart hot water priority = maximum savings.
How to Optimise Hot Water Priority
1. Insulate Your Home Properly
Better insulation means your home stays warm even when the heat pump switches to hot water mode.
2. Install Efficient Heating Systems
If you still use radiators or storage heaters, keep them maintained. You can explore:
3. Add Renewable Energy Support
Using solar energy can reduce the running costs of your heat pump.You can explore:Solar Panel Installation London
Grants That Can Help Reduce Costs
If you’re upgrading your heating system or insulation, you may be eligible for grants such as:
These grants can help cover the cost of insulation or switching to a heat pump.
Hot Water Priority vs Normal Heating Mode
|
Feature
|
Hot Water Priority
|
Normal Heating Mode
|
|---|---|---|
|
Purpose
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Heat domestic hot water
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Heat the home
|
|
Energy Distribution
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All energy to water
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Divided between water + heating
|
|
Speed
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Faster water heating
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Slower water heating
|
|
Impact on Home Temp
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Slight temporary drop
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No drop
|
|
Efficiency
|
Higher
|
Medium
|
EV Charging and Home Energy Efficiency
If you plan to make your home fully energy-efficient, you can also consider:
Pairing an EV charger with solar panels and a heat pump helps create a complete low-carbon home.
Final Tips for Best Hot Water Priority Performance
✔ Keep your hot water schedule fixed✔ Insulate your home properly✔ Avoid unnecessary boost mode usage✔ Regularly service your heat pump✔ Check if you qualify for grants✔ Use renewable energy where possible
Conclusion
Air Source Heat Pump Hot Water Priority Settings are essential for getting maximum comfort, higher efficiency, and lower billing costs. When used correctly, they ensure that your water heats faster without putting extra pressure on your system. And when combined with proper home insulation solutions like External Wall Insulation, Internal Wall Insulation, Loft Insulation, and Room in Roof Insulation, your heat pump becomes even more effective.
Grants and energy-saving technologies like solar panels and EV chargers can support a complete energy-efficient home in London.
If you are planning to upgrade your home heating system, now is the right time to understand these settings and use them for the best experience.
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