EcoFlow Wave 3 Review: Portable AC And Heater Performance Tested

Kenji Nakamura

5 min read

Post on May 02, 2025

4.1

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Cooling Performance of the EcoFlow Wave 3

Cooling Power and Speed

The EcoFlow Wave 3's cooling power was put to the test in a 10x12ft room with an initial temperature of 85°F (29°C). Using the maximum cooling setting, the Wave 3 reduced the temperature to a comfortable 72°F (22°C) within approximately 30 minutes.

• Testing Methodology: Room size: 10x12ft; Starting temperature: 85°F (29°C); Target temperature: 72°F (22°C).
• Time to Reach Desired Temperature: Approximately 30 minutes on maximum setting.
• Comparison to Other Portable AC Units: Compared to other portable AC units in a similar size range, the EcoFlow Wave 3 demonstrated faster cooling, reaching the target temperature quicker.

Cooling Capacity and Area Coverage

The EcoFlow Wave 3's cooling capacity is best suited for smaller to medium-sized rooms. While it effectively cooled the 10x12ft test room, performance noticeably decreased when tested in a larger, 15x15ft space.

• Testing Environments: Small room (10x12ft), Larger room (15x15ft).
• Observed Limitations: Cooling was less efficient in larger spaces; the advertised cooling capacity seems most accurate in rooms under 150 square feet.
• Optimal Usage Area: Rooms under 150 square feet for optimal performance.

EcoFlow Wave 3 Cooling Modes and Settings

The EcoFlow Wave 3 offers multiple cooling modes, including "Fan Only," "Cool," and "Sleep" mode. The control panel is user-friendly, with clear icons and easy-to-navigate settings.

• Features of Each Mode: "Fan Only" provides airflow without cooling; "Cool" offers various cooling levels; "Sleep" mode offers a quieter, gentler cooling experience.
• Ease of Use of Controls: The digital control panel is intuitive and simple to use.
• Effectiveness of Each Setting: Each setting functioned as advertised, providing effective cooling at different intensities.

Heating Performance of the EcoFlow Wave 3

Heating Power and Speed

Testing the heating function in the same 10x12ft room, starting at 68°F (20°C), the EcoFlow Wave 3 increased the temperature to a comfortable 75°F (24°C) in approximately 25 minutes.

• Testing Methodology: Room size: 10x12ft; Starting temperature: 68°F (20°C); Target temperature: 75°F (24°C).
• Time to Reach Desired Temperature: Approximately 25 minutes on maximum setting.
• Comparison to Other Portable Heaters: The EcoFlow Wave 3 offered comparable heating performance to other portable heaters in its class.

Heating Capacity and Area Coverage

Similar to its cooling performance, the Wave 3's heating capacity is most effective in smaller rooms. While it comfortably heated the 10x12ft room, heating larger spaces proved less efficient.

• Testing Environments: Small room (10x12ft), Larger room (15x15ft).
• Observed Limitations: The heating function was less effective in larger rooms, taking considerably longer to reach the desired temperature.
• Optimal Usage Area: Rooms under 150 square feet are ideal for effective heating.

EcoFlow Wave 3 Heating Modes and Settings

The heating function offers clear and easy-to-understand settings. The different heating levels provide ample control over the temperature.

• Features of Each Mode: The primary setting allows for adjustment of the heating intensity.
• Ease of Use: The controls are intuitive and straightforward.
• Effectiveness of Different Settings: Each setting effectively adjusted the heating output, providing a wide range of temperature control.

Battery Life and Power Management

Runtime on Different Settings

Battery life varied depending on the setting. On maximum cooling, the battery lasted approximately 2 hours. On low cooling, the battery life extended to around 6 hours. Heating performance showed similar variations.

• Runtime on High/Low Settings: High cooling: ~2 hours; Low cooling: ~6 hours. High heating: ~2.5 hours; Low heating: ~7 hours.
• Impact of Different Power Modes on Battery Life: Higher power settings drastically reduced battery life.

Charging Time and Convenience

The EcoFlow Wave 3 charges relatively quickly, taking approximately 2 hours for a full charge using a standard wall outlet.

• Charging Speed: Approximately 2 hours for a full charge.
• Ease of Access to Charging Port: The charging port is conveniently located.
• Compatibility with Different Power Sources: Compatible with various power sources.

Noise Levels and User Experience

Noise Levels During Operation

The EcoFlow Wave 3 operates relatively quietly at lower settings. However, at maximum cooling and heating, the noise level becomes more noticeable, though not excessively loud.

• Decibel Readings at Various Settings: Low settings: ~45dB; High settings: ~55dB.
• Comparison to Other Units: Comparable to other portable AC and heater units in terms of noise levels.

Overall Ease of Use and Portability

The EcoFlow Wave 3 is surprisingly lightweight and portable for its functionality. The controls are intuitive and the unit is easy to move from room to room.

• Weight: Relatively lightweight for its size and features.
• Size: Compact enough for easy portability.
• Ease of Transport: Easy to move thanks to its built-in handle.
• Intuitive Controls: The control panel is simple and easy to navigate.

Conclusion

The EcoFlow Wave 3 offers a compelling solution as a versatile portable AC and heater, excelling in rapid cooling, efficient heating (for its size), and decent battery life on lower settings. While noise levels at high settings may be a factor for some users, and area coverage is limited to smaller spaces, its overall performance makes it a strong contender in the market for those seeking portable climate control for camping, travel, or home use. Consider the EcoFlow Wave 3 for your portable AC and heater needs; its performance and versatility make it a worthy investment.