EcoFlow Wave 3 review: a portable A/C and heater that’s better in every way

The EcoFlow Wave 3 is a portable A/C and heater that offers improved performance over its predecessor, the Wave 2.
The unit can be recharged through multiple methods, including solar power, and features an automatic temperature range maintenance system.
The Wave 3 has increased cooling and heating capacities of 6100BTU (1800W) and 6800BTU (2000W), respectively, making it suitable for small spaces with occasional temperature control needs.
However, the unit’s bulky intake and exhaust hoses limit its placement options, and a water collection receptacle is required to collect drained water.
The EcoFlow Wave 3 may be a good option for van owners, surf shack dwellers, or others who need temporary temperature control in small spaces.

The EcoFlow Wave 3 disassembled on the gravel- and grass-covered ground in front of a van showing the battery, connector, Wave 3 unit, and duct work. — The Wave 3 needs all this to be portable and work efficiently.

I’ve been testing the EcoFlow Wave 3, a follow-up to the all-in-one battery-powered air conditioner, heater, and fan I reviewed last summer. EcoFlow has dialed back its absurd marketing with a more powerful unit that can be recharged through several methods, including the sun. Only now it can automatically (try to) maintain a set temperature range and act as a dedicated dehumidifier, too.

I was grateful to have EcoFlow’s Wave 2 with me last summer while vanlifing around Portugal and Spain. That less powerful A/C helped to offset daytime temps hitting 37 degrees Celsius (98.6 degree Fahrenheit) and made 25C (77F) nights comfortable enough to sleep. But it only worked in small spaces and under just the right circumstances.

The third-generation portable heat pump from EcoFlow can’t perform miracles. We’re still only talking 6100BTU (1800W) of cooling and 6800BTU (2000W) of heating. And placement is limited by bulky intake and exhaust hoses, and the space needed for a receptacle to collect any drained water.

But if you own a van, surf shack, work shed, roof-top tent, boat, or another small space requiring occasional temperature control, then the Wave 3 could be for you. Prices are …

Read the full story at The Verge.

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Q. What is the EcoFlow Wave 3?

A. The EcoFlow Wave 3 is a portable A/C and heater that can be recharged through several methods, including solar power.

Q. How does the EcoFlow Wave 3 differ from its predecessor, the Wave 2?

A. The Wave 3 has improved performance, with increased cooling and heating capacity (6100BTU vs 1800W and 6800BTU vs 2000W), as well as additional features like automatic temperature control and dehumidification.

Q. What are some of the limitations of the EcoFlow Wave 3?

A. The unit has limited placement due to bulky intake and exhaust hoses, and requires space for a receptacle to collect drained water.

Q. Is the EcoFlow Wave 3 suitable for all types of spaces?

A. No, it’s best suited for small spaces like vans, surf shacks, work sheds, roof-top tents, or boats that require occasional temperature control.

Q. How much power does the EcoFlow Wave 3 consume?

A. The unit consumes 1800W of cooling and 2000W of heating.

Q. Can the EcoFlow Wave 3 be recharged through solar power?

A. Yes, it can be recharged using solar power as one of several methods.

Q. What is the temperature range that the EcoFlow Wave 3 can maintain?

A. The unit can automatically try to maintain a set temperature range.

Q. Is the EcoFlow Wave 3 suitable for van lifing or outdoor use?

A. Yes, it was tested and used by the author while van lifing in Portugal and Spain last summer.

Q. How does the EcoFlow Wave 3 compare to other portable A/C and heaters on the market?

A. The article doesn’t provide a direct comparison, but mentions that the Wave 3 is “better in every way” than its predecessor and has improved performance.