The EcoFlow Wave 2 is a portable air conditioner that also functions as a heater. This versatile unit can provide cooling and heating on the go, completely powered by its internal battery or solar panels.
The Wave 2 builds on the success of the original EcoFlow Wave portable AC unit. While the Wave was limited to just cooling, the Wave 2 adds full heating functionality as well. This allows the Wave 2 to be used year-round for climate control.
The Wave 2 is lightweight and compact. It can be easily moved from room to room or taken camping and on road trips. Despite its small size, the Wave 2 delivers substantial heating and cooling power. It offers 5,100 BTU of cooling and 6,100 BTU of heating.
The Wave 2 is designed to operate off-grid. Its integrated 1,150Wh lithium battery can power the unit for up to 8 hours on a single charge. It also has a built-in MPPT solar charge controller, allowing it to be charged directly by solar panels. The Wave 2 provides several recharging options, including AC, 12V car outlet, and solar. This versatility allows it to be used in many situations where power access is limited.
With smart temperature control and quiet performance, the EcoFlow Wave 2 aims to make portable climate control easy and convenient. Its unique off-grid capabilities allow you to stay comfortable anywhere.
Portability
The EcoFlow WAVE 2 portable air conditioner is designed for maximum portability and off-grid use. Unlike most portable ACs, the WAVE 2 has a built-in 1167Wh battery that allows it to run completely cordless. There are no cords needed to plug it into an outlet or external battery.
The integrated battery provides up to 8 hours of runtime on eco mode, which is sufficient to cool or heat a medium-sized room. If more runtime is needed, the WAVE 2 can be connected to an external EcoFlow power station like the Delta or Delta Max to extend the battery capacity.
Having the battery built right into the unit makes it easy to move the WAVE 2 between different rooms or take it on the go. You don’t need to drag around cables or a separate battery pack. Just pick it up and bring it wherever portable climate control is needed. Weighing in at just 26.4 lbs, the Wave 2 achieves impressive portability for the amount of heating and cooling power it provides.
The WAVE 2 gives you true portability and off-grid operation right out of the box, without requiring any additional components. This makes it the ideal portable AC solution for RVs, vans, tents, tailgating and more.
Heating and Cooling
The Wave 2 stands out from other portable air conditioners due to its ability to provide both heating and cooling in one unit. With 5100 BTUs of cooling power and 6100 BTUs of heating power, this versatile device can keep you comfortable in a wide range of temperatures.
Simply set the desired mode and temperature on the digital control panel, and the Wave 2 quickly gets to work. For cooling, it leverages an advanced compressor that intakes air, removes moisture, cools it down, and then blows out crisp, conditioned air. The heating uses nichrome heating wires to rapidly warm the airstream before it exits the louvers.
You’ll be impressed how quickly a space reaches your desired temperature, often within 5 minutes of turning on the unit. It can lower temperatures by up to 20oF for cooling and raise them by 20oF when used as a heater. This makes the Wave 2 ideal for off-grid scenarios where temperatures fluctuate dramatically between day and night.
Whether you need a personal heating and cooling solution in your van, or want to setup a comfortable environment in your tent while camping, the Wave 2 has you covered year-round. The ability to both heat and cool with the same compact unit makes it far more versatile than any other portable AC on the market.
Solar Charging
One of the standout features of the EcoFlow Wave 2 is its ability to charge directly from solar panels without the need for an additional power station.
Most portable ACs require either wall power or a separate power station unit to provide energy. But the Wave 2 has a built-in solar charge controller that allows it to charge directly from portable solar panels with an XT60 connector. You simply plug the solar panel cable into the charging port on the side of the Wave 2.
This provides unlimited runtime, as long as you have sufficient solar panels. You could keep the Wave 2 running indefinitely during the day by continually charging the 1.1kWh battery from solar.
The ability to solar charge directly makes the Wave 2 extremely versatile for off-grid use. You don’t need to dedicate a separate power station to run the AC. Just connect solar and you’re good to go. This makes it perfect for camping, overlanding, van life, or any application where shore power access is limited.
Whether using the Wave 2’s internal battery or charging with solar, it provides the freedom to have cooling or heating anywhere. The solar charging capability expands the possibilities for off-grid operation.
Quiet Enough for Sleeping
The Wave 2 portable air conditioner operates at surprisingly low noise levels, making it well-suited for sleeping areas. At its lowest fan speed setting, it produces just 44 decibels of sound. For reference, that’s quieter than a library.
I found the Wave 2 to be quieter than even my diesel heater when running outside the tent. With the Wave 2 inside the tent on sleep mode, you can barely hear it running. It didn’t disrupt sleep at all during my testing.
The louvers help direct the conditioned air quietly as well. And the unit has a cord winder to eliminate any sounds from a dangling cord.
EcoFlow prioritized low noise with the Wave 2’s design. This allows it to run all night for heating or cooling without being a nuisance. The quiet operation really sets it apart from many competing portable ACs.
Testing and Performance
To really test the durability and performance of the EcoFlow Wave 2, I ran it in my camper van continuously for over 3 weeks. I wanted to push it to the limits, since in my product testing I don’t believe in just using something as intended – I test products far beyond their specs.
For a little over 3 weeks, the Wave 2 ran 24/7 in my camper van as an air conditioner during the hot days and a heater during the cold nights. Every evening I would switch it to maximum heating, and every morning I’d crank the AC up to full blast. It ran non-stop for over 3 weeks, without a single issue.
The power came from a 100W solar panel on the roof, along with the built-in battery of the Wave 2. Between the two, it had no problem running continuously. I was really impressed that it held up so well to extreme, continuous use. This kind of demanding, real-world testing gives me confidence that the Wave 2 can handle normal use with no problems.
Tent Camping Demo
We decided to put the Wave 2 to the test by using it for overnight tent camping in the backyard. The nighttime low was expected to drop into the 40s Fahrenheit, so having a way to stay warm would be crucial.
I set up a tent in the backyard alongside a trampoline and some solar panels. The Wave 2 ran all day in air conditioning mode powered by the solar panels with no issues. The battery stayed at 100% charge for hours.
When bedtime came, my daughter and I snuggled into sleeping bags inside the tent. I switched the Wave 2 into heating mode and let it run on maximum throughout the night. Despite the chilly outdoor temperatures, it kept the inside of the tent very comfortable. The noise level was quieter than a diesel heater and posed no issues for sleeping.
The true test came the next morning when we woke up. The Wave 2 had run all night long with no problems. The tent stayed toasty and allowed my daughter and I to have a successful first backyard campout experience. The performance gave me confidence that the Wave 2 could handle real camping trips just as well.
Versatility
The Wave 2 offers impressive versatility through its many configuration options. You can run it solely off the built-in battery for up to 8 hours, or connect an external battery like the EcoFlow Delta to extend the runtime. It works seamlessly with the full range of EcoFlow batteries and power stations.
Adding solar panels directly powers the unit and charges the battery, removing the need for a separate power station as the intermediary. The Wave 2 has a built-in MPPT solar charge controller to handle this efficiently. You can use the XT60 port to connect any solar panel.
For camping and outdoor use, the different ducting options let you direct airflow where needed. Intake and outflow ports allow ducting the hot exhaust outside while bringing in cool air. The louvers provide airflow direction control.
Inside a vehicle or room, you can position the Wave 2 to best distribute heating or cooling. The top-mounted touchscreen LCD makes it easy to control settings as needed. It includes modes like Eco, Sleep, and Max to customize operation.
With this level of flexibility, the Wave 2 adapts well to RVs, vans, tents, home offices, workshops, and more. You can optimize the setup based on your power sources available and airflow needs. This versatility broadens the potential use cases.
Ecosystem
A key benefit of the EcoFlow Wave 2 is how it works seamlessly with other EcoFlow products to create a complete ecosystem for powering and cooling your off-grid adventures.
The Wave 2 was designed from the ground up to integrate with EcoFlow’s full line of portable power stations, solar panels, and accessories. This allows you to mix and match components to build a custom setup tailored to your specific needs.
For example, the standard Wave 2 unit has an 1120Wh removable battery which provides around 8 hours of runtime. But you can dramatically extend the runtime by connecting an external EcoFlow power station like the Delta Max or Delta Pro. This instantly gives you days or even weeks of unattended operation.
The Wave 2 also has a built-in MPPT solar charge controller so you can plug solar panels directly into the unit without a separate charge controller. EcoFlow’s folding solar panels with XT60 connectors are perfect for keeping the Wave 2 topped off.
By combining the Wave 2, a power station, and some solar panels you have a completely self-sufficient heating and cooling solution ready for off-grid use anywhere. No shore power or generator required.
The ability to mix and match EcoFlow products enables you to start small with just the basics and then scale up your system over time. You can incrementally increase your solar capacity, battery capacity, and accessories like the EcoFlow smart fridge as needed.
EcoFlow built the Wave 2 to be the cornerstone of an integrated ecosystem designed for versatile and sustainable off-grid living. This flexibility and expandability is a key advantage compared to standalone AC units.
Target Markets
The EcoFlow Wave 2 is ideal for several niche markets including vanlife enthusiasts, overlanders, campers, and RV owners.
Its compact all-in-one design makes it perfect for small spaces like vans, trucks with camper shells, and even tents. The ability to run directly off solar, a separate battery, or AC power gives vanlifers and overlanders the flexibility to stay cool or warm no matter where they park for the night. Campers will appreciate being able to keep their tent or trailer comfortable without running loud, gas-powered generators.
The Wave 2 is also a game-changer for RV owners. Many RVs, especially older models, lack air conditioning. With the Wave 2, you can add portable AC and heating without installing a rooftop unit or making any permanent modifications. Its noise level is similar to an RV air conditioner at max speed, but you can turn it down for sleeping. For times when you don’t have shore power, you can run it directly off solar, the onboard battery, or a separate power station.
Overall, the Wave 2 grants off-grid independence and temperature control for the growing number of people embracing vehicle living and outdoor adventures. Its versatility and convenience in small spaces make it appealing for several on-the-go markets.
Company Background
EcoFlow is a company on a mission to change the way the world accesses energy. Founded in 2017, EcoFlow has quickly grown to become one of the leaders in portable power stations and renewable energy solutions.
The company was started by a group of product engineers that were frustrated by the limitations of existing solutions on the market. They set out to develop products that not only pack ample power and endurance, but are smart, eco-friendly and actually convenient to use.
EcoFlow takes pride in designing intelligent ecosystems of products that work together seamlessly. Their collection includes portable power stations, solar panels, EV charging solutions, batteries and other accessories.
A key focus for EcoFlow is eco-friendly and renewable power sources. Their products are optimized to work with solar charging, and have features like MPPT controllers built-in for maximum solar efficiency. This enables entire off-grid solar solutions with just EcoFlow products.
In just a few short years, EcoFlow has released a steady stream of innovative products like the River line of power stations, the Delta line with expandable batteries, the Wave portable AC units, and more. They’ve quickly become a top brand for vanlifers, overlanders, and anyone needing portable power.
With an ambitious team of engineers and a commitment to evolving energy technology, EcoFlow is poised for continued growth and innovations in the portable power space.
How Wave 2 Compares to Competitor Products
The EcoFlow Wave 2 stands out from other portable AC units in several key ways:
Portability
At just 32 pounds, the Wave 2 is lighter and more portable than many competitor models. Some portable ACs can weigh 60-80 pounds, making them difficult to transport and move around. The Wave 2’s integrated battery and compact design make it ideal for using in RVs, vans, tents, and other mobile applications.
Heating & Cooling Power
With 5100 BTU of cooling and 6100 BTU of heating, the Wave 2 offers strong temperature regulation in spaces up to 150 square feet. Competitors often provide cooling OR heating, but not both. Having AC and heat in one unit provides more value and versatility.
Solar Charging Capability
The Wave 2 has a built-in MPPT solar charge controller, allowing it to charge directly from solar panels. Most portable ACs rely solely on wall power or gas generators. The Wave 2’s solar charging gives you energy independence and extended runtime off-grid.
Noise Level
EcoFlow designed the Wave 2 to operate quietly on its Sleep Mode at just 44 decibels. Comparable portable ACs often generate 50+ decibels of noise that can disrupt sleep. The Wave 2 is one of the quietest models, making it a good choice for overnight use.
Advanced Features
Unlike many competitor ACs, the Wave 2 has smart features through app control, customizable louvers to direct airflow, a cord winding slot, and an ecosystem of EcoFlow products to expand runtime. The Wave 2 outpaces other portable ACs in innovation and functionality.
So if you’re looking for an lightweight, versatile, eco-friendly portable AC and heater, the Wave 2 stands out from the crowd. Its robust cooling and heating, solar charging capabilities, quiet operation and smart features create an AC designed for off-grid adventures.
Pricing and Availability
The EcoFlow Wave 2 portable air conditioner currently retails for $1099 USD on the EcoFlow website. However, using the promo code ECOKCASE8 will get you 8% off the Wave 2 until June 15, bringing the price down to just $999. This makes the Wave 2 not only one of the most advanced and versatile portable climate control systems on the market, but also one of the most affordable compared to competitors.
For example, many other portable ACs at this BTU rating and with dual heating and cooling functionality retail for $1200 or more. So the Wave 2 is leading the pack in terms of value and functionality.
On top of that, EcoFlow frequently has bundle deals, seasonal sales, and other discounts that let you save even more on the Wave 2 and other EcoFlow products when purchased together. It’s always worth checking their promos page or talking to their sales team to find the best possible pricing.
The bottom line is that between the competitive retail price, frequent discounts and promo codes, and the huge value you get with the Wave 2’s capabilities, it’s an extremely appealing option for anyone looking for portable climate control and off-grid operation.
Pros and Cons
Benefits
- Completely portable and self-contained heating and cooling unit
- Can run directly off solar panels without a power station
- Has a built-in rechargeable battery for 8+ hours of power
- Works as both an AC and a heater
- Relatively quiet operation
- Can be ducted to direct airflow
- Integrates with other EcoFlow products like power stations
- Compact, lightweight design for easy transport
- Can heat or cool small spaces very quickly
- Smart controls and app connectivity
Drawbacks
- Battery life less than some competing products
- Only one temperature sensor
- No smart home integration
- Exhaust ducting required to vent heat outside
- Solar charging less efficient than some panels
- Can’t run high power devices like hair dryers
- Price is higher than some portable ACs
Conclusion
The EcoFlow Wave 2 portable air conditioner and heater is an innovative and versatile product perfect for a wide variety of uses. Its portability, powerful heating and cooling capabilities, solar charging options, and quiet operation make it ideal for van life, camping, boating, small home offices, and more.
After extensive testing, the Wave 2 performed very well as both an air conditioner and a heater. It was able to quickly cool and warm the testing environments, and ran quietly enough for comfortable sleep. The integrated battery provided up to 8 hours of runtime, and could be recharged via solar or AC power.
The Wave 2’s compatibility with other EcoFlow products like the Delta power stations demonstrates the potential of EcoFlow’s growing ecosystem of products. With smart expandability built into each device, users can customize an optimal off-grid power solution for their needs.
Overall, the EcoFlow Wave 2 portable air conditioner and heater is a top recommendation for anyone seeking an all-in-one heating and cooling solution for life on the go. Its performance, flexibility, and innovative design make it a leader in its market segment. For versatile and eco-friendly temperature control, the Wave 2 is hard to beat.