Originally published on LinkedIn
Introduction
In our pursuit of quality, TEL GmbH and the manufacturer Tansun focus on durability, ease of repair, and compliance with modern manufacturing standards. We are convinced that the performance of our heaters is leading. So far, however, we have only been able to demonstrate this subjectively and through exemplary demonstrations. To objectively quantify the performance differences, we conducted a comparison test in July 2024. This report does not represent a comprehensive scientific study but provides results under realistic conditions regarding distance and airflow.
Test products
For our comparison, we selected the following devices:
- Tansun Sorrento 2kW: Short-wave infrared heater, used, with new original tube, new price incl. VAT: €389, made in the United Kingdom
- Comparison device 2kW: Short-wave infrared heater, used, with new original tube, new price incl. VAT: €109.99, made in China
Both devices carry the CE mark and are offered by local distributors, with customer support and spare parts availability provided in each case.
Results
The Tansun Sorrento produces between 109% and 187% more heat than the comparison device. Our heaters therefore deliver 2.09 to 2.87 times more heat at the same power. These measurements prove that our devices have significantly higher efficiency.
Although we cannot directly derive energy savings from this data, the results confirm that the Sorrento emits significantly more infrared heat. In future tests, we will work with temperature control at lower ambient temperatures to achieve a desired target temperature and determine power consumption. This will allow us to quantify the difference monetarily as well.
An example calculation of cost savings shows that the higher purchase price of the Sorrento is offset by energy savings of about 33% after 1,116 kWh. At an electricity price of 25 cents per kWh, the break-even point would be reached after 1,690 operating hours. In the hospitality industry, with intensive use of 720 hours annually, the price difference would be amortized after just two and a half heating seasons. With daily use of 8 hours over 180 days a year, this could already be the case at the start of the second heating season.
Procedure
The heaters were mounted on a tripod at a height of about 160 cm and aligned horizontally. The radiation temperature sensor was placed at a horizontal distance of 1.5 m and 2 m respectively. Behind the radiation temperature sensor was an open warehouse door (7.5 sqm), and to the side an open door to an adjacent room with direct access outside. The air temperature at the heater was measured before the test with a separate sensor. During the test, we only monitored the temperatures at the radiation temperature sensor. The starting temperature was always above 20 °C.
A power consumption meter measured the actual consumption of the devices: The Sorrento consumed 1,910 watts, the comparison device 1,920 watts. We observed temperature changes over a period of 10 minutes. After each test run, we waited until the displayed temperature stabilized before starting another run. The temperature increase was converted per kW based on the actual power consumption.
Interpretation
Despite identical power consumption of 2,000 watts, the results show significant differences. These could be due to different infrared proportions of the heating tubes or reflector efficiency. The Sorrento is significantly more efficient at transmitting infrared heat over a distance of 1.5 to 2.0 meters in drafty environments.
Our comparison focused on heat output over distance. Other features of the comparison device, such as a remote control, 3 dimming levels, and 'Low Glare' tubes, were not tested. Durability was also not examined, although we suspect that critical components inside the comparison device’s housing are less protected from heat. According to the manufacturer, the infrared tubes of both devices have an average lifespan of about 6,000 hours.
Conclusion
The infrared heater Tansun Sorrento is many times more effective in this test than a comparison product with the same power consumption. Therefore, when selecting a product, it is not enough to compare purchase criteria based on a data sheet and purchase price. While this may only result in comfort losses with private use and few operating hours, in commercial use in hospitality or as workplace heating, operating costs are already to be expected in the short term (after 1-2 years) that negate purchase price differences.
Measuring instruments used
- Radiation sensor PT100 Class B, 3-wire from otom® Group GmbH
- Cable sensor PT100 Class B, 2-wire from otom® Group GmbH (for air temperature)
- REX-C100 temperature controller for temperature measurement
Challenges and limitations
Although we have an interest in favorable results for our products, we aimed for an objective evaluation. Different radiation temperatures and the 3-4 °C varying starting temperature are explained by reflected sunlight in the test zone. Originally, a more expensive radiation temperature sensor from another manufacturer was to be used, but it was replaced due to delivery delays. Despite these open questions, we conducted the tests because both devices were tested with the same measuring material.
The higher output temperature than is usual in practice means that both devices could probably show even higher temperature increases at lower starting temperatures. Since we do not have access to a climate chamber, wind and temperature conditions could vary.
Tests conducted by TEL GmbH | wirheizenmitstrom.com
We rely on short-wave electric infrared heaters as an alternative heating option for workplaces. This offers, among other things, the following advantages:
- Rapid heating: Short-wave infrared heaters allow immediate warming of surfaces and people without having to heat the room air first.
- Zone-specific control: Our technology enables flexible and demand-oriented heating of different open hall areas to optimize energy consumption.
- Simple installation: The easy installation without extensive construction work minimizes space requirements and preserves the flexibility of room design.
- Environmentally friendly: Electric infrared heaters produce no harmful emissions, and with an appropriate power supply, even CO2-neutral operation is possible.
We look forward to your messages, questions, suggestions, or tips for future tests.
