Air source Heat pump - a few questions

[willow2]

I have moved into a new build house which is heated by an air source heat pump.

1. is it correct that they do not need servicing/maintenance or is that a high risk strategy
2. Do any companies provide insurance cover in the same way you can cover a conventional boiler
3. There is a sporty household of 3 all of whom shower in the morning, often we have two showers a day, 2 water tanks obviously new and well insulated. How many hours would you suggest the water is heated for and should this be split across the day/night or done in one go see also point 5
4. I understand that when both the heating and the water is on the water has preference. Presumably therefore it makes sense to have the heating and water on independent of each other is that usual.
5. The heating is required from 5.30am to 8am and again from 2.30pm to 10.00pm bearing this in mind what would be the recomendation for water timing
6. Any other tips about operating such a system

Thank you in advance for any help offered.

 

[Rodreguez]

dont think it would be a hot water priority system, but have read that most have a electric backup as most will not give flow temp of 60 as is required to heat hot water. but saying that there are a few which will give increased temps but as i see it are pretty new products. Dont quote me on this though, best to check with manufacturer of how system should be set up. or if you know who commissioning engineer is give them a call.

 

[maul]

ashp work best when the air outside is warmest so it makes sense to heat your water during the mid-day while you are out and heat house right after that so you are gaining all you can out of the warmest part of the day then in the evening it only has to top up the heating to maintain temp.
once the water is fully heated it will automatically stop getting heated and just do central heating
how much hot water you can store would also be a factor and if you do use lots then you may have to use immersion back up when needed or take shorter showers