EcoFlow Wave 3 Review: A Superior Portable A/C and Heater

Introducing an enhanced version of a niche but effective climate control solution.

After evaluating the EcoFlow Wave 3, a successor in the line of portable, battery-driven climate devices, it's clear that the manufacturer has scaled down the exaggerated marketing of its predecessor. This new model boasts increased power and the flexibility of multiple charging options, including solar energy. It can now also regulate a pre-set temperature range on its own and offers a dedicated dehumidification mode.

During a previous summer van trip across Portugal and Spain, I utilized the EcoFlow Wave 2 to counteract scorching daytime highs of 37°C (98.6°F), effectively sustaining bearable sleeping conditions at 25°C (77°F) at night. However, it was only effective in limited situations. The latest model, while an advancement, cannot defy the laws of thermodynamics. It offers 6100BTU (1800W) for cooling and 6800BTU (2000W) for heating, with its use constrained by sizable intake and exhaust pipes, as well as space requirements for draining water.

If you possess a van, small office, or other modestly sized spaces where temperature regulation is only occasionally required, the Wave 3 could be a perfect fit. Initially, the price is set at $849, or $1,399 when combined with a battery, expected to rise significantly next month.

Expanding Usable Areas

The Wave 3 is engineered to function efficiently in areas up to 17 square meters (180 square feet), improving upon the Wave 2, which was suitable for spaces less than 10 square meters (107 square feet). For testing, I utilized it in various configurations, placing it as a heater in a 14.8 square meter (161 square feet) mini-home and as an A/C in a 9 square meter (97 square feet) Class-B van. Connectivity is seamless via built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, allowing full operation through the EcoFlow application.

Performance as a Heater

In heating mode, the Wave 3 demonstrated marginal improvement over its precursor but struggled to fully warm a small living area when faced with exterior temperatures of 8°C to 10°C (46°F to 50°F). With a mix of Eco and Sleep modes, it managed to sustain an internal temperature of around 14°C to 17°C (57°F to 63°F) for approximately 13 hours on a 1024Wh battery, distinguishing it as a modest upgrade.

Auditory Levels

Sound output is another consideration; Sleep mode operates quietly at about 45dB from one meter's distance. However, in higher settings like Eco or Max, noise levels increase to 60dB and sometimes produce a steadier 36dB buzz during charging, adding to its auditory footprint.

Cooling Capabilities

Anticipating challenges based on past experiences, the Wave 3 partially met expectations during daytime van tests. In direct sunlight, even with window reflectors, cooling effectiveness diminished significantly, unable to reduce the temperature in heated glass and metal surroundings.

In shady conditions, however, its performance improved substantially, effectively reducing the internal temperature to the unit’s lowest setting, promising cooler nights even at 25°C (77°F) outdoors.

Battery and Dehumidification

The duration of cooling on battery power in Max mode capped out near three hours, contrary to the brand’s eight-hour claim for Eco mode. While less tested, the dehumidifier function holds potential for off-season storage scenarios, enhancing its value for versatile year-round usage.

Final Remarks

The EcoFlow Wave series stands unique with its multifunctional portability and efficiency, yet Wave 3 refines this by providing a balanced portrayal, closing the confusion from previous unrealistic marketing. Although a specialized solution for limited heating and cooling needs in small, off-grid spaces, it finds a crucial audience.

Pricing dynamics are heavily influenced by temporary offers, currently allowing purchase at $799 with a coupon. For comprehensive functionality, the Wave 3 with battery is recommended, although tariff changes could affect future discounts.