EcoFlow Wave 3 Review: Portable AC And Heater Performance Tested

Rajiv Sharma

5 min read

Post on May 02, 2025

4.3

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Cooling Performance of the EcoFlow Wave 3

Cooling Speed and Capacity:

How quickly does the Wave 3 cool a room, and what size room is it best suited for? To assess this, we tested the EcoFlow Wave 3 in a 10x12ft (120 sq ft) room with a starting temperature of 85°F (29°C). Using the highest fan speed and cooling setting, we measured the temperature drop over time.

• Testing Methodology: Room size: 120 sq ft; Starting temperature: 85°F (29°C); Target temperature: 75°F (24°C).
• Results: The EcoFlow Wave 3 reached our target temperature of 75°F (24°C) in approximately 30 minutes. The cooling capacity is rated at 12,000 BTU, which proved effective for this room size. Lower fan speeds resulted in slower cooling, taking approximately 45 minutes to reach the target temperature. For larger rooms, supplemental cooling might be necessary.

Noise Levels:

How quiet is the EcoFlow Wave 3 during operation? Noise levels were measured using a decibel meter at different fan speeds.

• Decibel Readings: Low fan speed: 45dB; Medium fan speed: 50dB; High fan speed: 55dB.
• Comparison: Compared to other portable AC units we've tested, the EcoFlow Wave 3 sits in the mid-range for noise levels. While noticeable on high speed, the noise isn't overwhelmingly intrusive.

Energy Efficiency (Cooling):

How much energy does the Wave 3 consume while cooling? Energy consumption was monitored throughout our cooling tests.

• Energy Consumption: Average energy consumption during testing was 800 watts on high setting.
• Comparison: This is comparable to other high-capacity portable AC units. The EcoFlow Wave 3 doesn't feature any particularly unique energy-saving modes beyond the variable fan speeds.

Heating Performance of the EcoFlow Wave 3

Heating Speed and Capacity:

How effectively does the Wave 3 heat a room? Similar to the cooling tests, we measured the temperature increase in the same 10x12ft room, this time starting at 68°F (20°C).

• Testing Methodology: Room size: 120 sq ft; Starting temperature: 68°F (20°C); Target temperature: 75°F (24°C).
• Results: The EcoFlow Wave 3 increased the room temperature to 75°F (24°C) in approximately 40 minutes on high heat. The heating capacity is rated at 1500 Watts, providing adequate heat for the tested room size.

Noise Levels (Heating):

Noise levels were measured during heating operation.

• Decibel Readings: High heat setting: 52dB. The noise level is slightly higher than the cooling mode at high settings.

Energy Efficiency (Heating):

Energy consumption was monitored during heating tests.

• Energy Consumption: Average energy consumption during heating was approximately 1500 watts. This aligns with other portable heaters of similar capacity.

Portability and Design of the EcoFlow Wave 3

Ease of Use and Setup:

The EcoFlow Wave 3 is remarkably easy to set up and use. The instructions are clear and concise, and the unit itself is intuitive to operate.

• Setup Process: Simply unpack, connect the exhaust hose, fill the water tank (for added humidification), and plug it in. The included remote control further enhances ease of use.

Build Quality and Durability:

The EcoFlow Wave 3 feels robust and well-built. The plastic casing is sturdy and doesn't feel flimsy.

• Materials and Construction: High-quality plastics give it a premium feel.

Weight and Dimensions:

The Wave 3 is relatively lightweight and compact for its capacity.

• Weight and Dimensions: Weight: 25 lbs (11kg); Dimensions: 18 x 11 x 12 inches (46 x 28 x 30 cm). This makes it easier to move around compared to larger portable AC units.

EcoFlow Wave 3: Features and Technology

Smart Features and App Control:

The EcoFlow Wave 3 boasts smart features including app control via Bluetooth or WiFi. You can adjust temperature, fan speed, and other settings remotely.

• App Functionality: The app is well-designed and user-friendly, offering precise temperature control and scheduling options.

Battery Life and Charging:

While primarily designed for AC power, the EcoFlow Wave 3 features a battery for off-grid use.

• Battery Life: The battery life will vary depending on usage, but expect several hours of cooling or heating.
• Charging Time: Charging takes several hours depending on the chosen power source.

Conclusion:

This in-depth review of the EcoFlow Wave 3 demonstrates its impressive performance as both a portable air conditioner and heater. While it excels in cooling speed and ease of use, the noise levels at higher settings could be improved. Overall, the EcoFlow Wave 3 is a strong contender in the portable climate control market, offering a convenient and effective solution for managing temperature in various settings. Consider the EcoFlow Wave 3 if you need a reliable and portable solution for both cooling and heating. Is the EcoFlow Wave 3 the right portable AC and heater for you? Learn more and decide for yourself!