I used to hear stories told a long time ago. They were about something called integrity. It's difficult to recognize, because it's been such a long time, but I think I just saw some.
Had one a few summers ago in an arid place. Worked great. Put out a lot of moisture from the cold ice. Had to sit in front of it. What relief in triple degree days. The air conditioner in that last place was built a bit funky. There was an a/c that was positioned just above the wash machine closet drain pipe. Had place dry towels a few times to monitor the moisture, dampness but this was ok because during on peak hours I could place in front of a portable fan to help cool, or use it for wiping spills or dust.
These honest reviews are Important for the manufacturers to hear, they need to know how a device like this needs to function for the people who are using it.
I’ve been a trucker for nearly 30 years, living on the road. I’m also about to downsize from my small Wolf Pup travel trailer to just living out of my pickup truck. My point is that I bought a Stanley/Lasko high velocity blower fan several years ago, and I carry it around everywhere on the road. It’s just a fan but has been the absolute best thing to keep air circulating comfortably. I’ve been stuck in Miami, FL with a broken AC in the peak of summer heat and was quite comfortable. It only cost about $50 on Amazon. It used ac current, so I plug it into my little 300 watt inverter and never have any issues with it.
Mabey do a video on a 12,000 but inverter A/C. They are very unique and cost only about $400 bucks with little amp draw. Need an inverter for 120 v but will be less power and cool way better. But must be vented outside just like a window unit. Great videos!
Thank you for your honesty The company that really listens to your critiques and manages to provide a product that really meets our needs will make an absolute killing
First, I am a huge ECOFLOW fan and have Wave1 and Wave2 plus their Frig/freezer, River2 Pro and Delta Max 2000. They all work well for me! I use Wave1 and Wave2 in my small house in Montana: low humidity and I use the exhaust hoses with thermal wraps. I don't experience heat from the unit itself, but the exhaust hose - YES, which is why the thermal wrap. I have Wave2 in my "living room" which opens to my bedroom ... a floor fan to move air from living room to bedroom. Wave1 is in my "office" and cools that 11x11 south facing room plus another fan to move air to adjoining kitchen. My house is '85 vintage. I have the aux battery for WAVE2 but at "home", I am plugged in so power is not an issue. BUT, I did test battery and consistently get 7 hours at 90F temps. In my RV, I have used the units for off grid. Now, 33 foot Class A motorhome, 2 slides and I do have a 5K Onan gen but prefer not to use it except to recharge. IDK ... I am very happy with Wave1 and Wave2 in my situation. I am planning on downsizing to ??? and even if a van, I would put Wave2 in passenger area vented out passenger window with cool air hose to living area. I know minimal insulation in a van vs home vs motorhome AND I never intend to be in temps of 100!!! So ... my experience.
I have a converted E250 Ford van. No high top. I don’t like to be hot…so air conditioning was very important to me. I removed the back window and replaced it with a thick piece of wood paneling…painted white. I cut out a square hole for my 5000 BTU A/C and installed it there. It works great and probably doesn’t use as many watts as that Eco Flo A/C unit. Plus I don’t have to worry about lugging it around or taking up too much space. It certainly would not be any worse of an eye sore as that EcoFlow model either. It’s installed in the back window out of the way of the interior and works great!
I found that a small window ac is about the best thing for me, I have a Haier 5000 btu unit that draws about 600 watts at max and an average of 250-400 watts for most of the day and partway into the night. It only cost about $100 new and about an hour and $30ish to mount it so it exhausts to the outside, there are a lot of resources online about how to do this. I did this shortly after you did a video with a fellow in a small travel trailer with a dog, he was really into the solar oven thing too but I forgot his name :( super interesting fellow though. Anyways, 800 watts of solar with a 200 amp-hour lithium battery runs my little ac fine with no problems whatsoever! All the panels and battery, wiring, controller, and the AC was pretty close to the price of just this unit.
I have a Walmart $200 keystone 5,000 btu window ac in my van and it works very well. It is an energy star model, which is important for conserving power, and it draws 360-380 watts when the compressor is running, and 60 when it is not and just the fan runs. In eco mode, which I run all the time, the compressor only kicks on now and then. I power it with my Bluetti AC200P easily with no problems. This unit can make my van ice cold even in the hot Kentucky summer. Many people tell me window units will not last long in a van, and I should have installed a $3,500 unit designed for vans and rv use. We'll, Walmarts are everywhere and if/when it blows up,I will get another one. I have had it a year and so far so good. The truth is, I can buy a new unit every year for 16 years with the money it would have cost me for a "real" roof rv ac unit. I have a picture of my install on my channel where I am showing my diesel heater exterior install if anyone is interested.
@@RG-hn6dg they do little to nothing for 80+% of the world. I understand they're a cheap solution (with a lot of downsides to consider, air moisture can be a huge issue in a confined space) but they're extremely limited in utility
Very accurate review. I have one in my 2022 Ram Promaster 1500. I got it and used it last year. It does not have a permanent spot in the van so I kept it on the floor next to my pantry and at night lifted it onto the passenger seat for venting out the passenger window. It is HEAVY!! I'm 67 and not weak, but having to move it from the floor to the seat every day was IRRITATING! But I couldn't live without it. I used it primarily at night so I could get good sleep. I live in San Diego County in the hot inland area. During the day I would drive down to the coast by the beach & find a tree to park under. At night I have obligations inland so the air conditioner was essential at night. Worth it? NO. HEAVY, huge power draw (thank goodness for shore power). Takes up a LOT of space. I felt I was a slave to it. No other options, though. I wish there were. I would sell it but I truly do need it. So, this year I will break my back moving it back and forth from the floor to the seat again. Oh ... and the hoses are a pain and are NOT built to be expanded & collapsed daily. I'm beginning to see cracks in them and will be getting out the duct tape soon. Edited: One other thing not mentioned in the video ... you have to collect the condensate. That's the water that builds up. There is a drain and hose that comes with the unit but you have to have some way to catch that water or it ends up all over the floor. It produces about a gallon over night depending on the humidity where you are.
Glad to see you again. Watching from Belize. Living in Cayo. I live on my SS. ALL my bills total $800 USD . I live good here that includes a house cleaner. No cold weather and a USD is worth 2 BZD..... Mountains to the sea 2 hrs. Enjoying my life here, come join me.
Thank you for posting this review. I have owned the Wave 2 with the optional battery for about a year. I travel, live and work from a 19' travel trailer. While I did not initially purchase the Wave 2 to cool or heat the TT, I have tested the unit out in the TT and realized similar results to yours. What I do use the unit for is supplemental cooling for my SUV as I travel with my dog. It works well keeping this small space cool for my pup, but struggles to cool the TT. Should anyone want to make the investment to add this unit to your kit, please know that while it works, there are many concessions that one may want to consider before moving forward. For those who may want to use this unit in an RV or TT, I have found setting it up in the bedroom and closing the door to work well for cooling this room first. I then open the bedrrom door and use well-placed fans to circulate the cooled air. Thanks again for posting your findings. I was beginning to think that my experiences were unique to my particular unit.
if you have a smaller rig and lots of power this is great! My friend has an SUV and loves this. She uses her generator for about 90 minutes every day to charge this and her power station and that keeps everything running. She stores generator and A/C unit when not in use in a cargo box on her bumper. I believe this is an option if you have power, space for storage, a small rig and money
I've lived in Montana for 63 years I was recently forced out of being able to rent as some people from Idaho bought the home I rent. I am on disability second pacemaker defibrillator... They raise the rent so high that I only have $93. A month left to pay my power phone Van insurance, dog food. I am so thankful I have my van. It is a 1997 Chevrolet Express with a high top. I bought the eco-flow Wave 2 For myself for my 63rd birthday May 11th. It took me a long time to save for it, Now I will save for the battery. I do have a 200 watt solar panel on top of my van, that I used to run my 12 volt fridge/ freezer chest, and it keeps my phone and my tablet charged. Thank you so much for the review, I love every one of your videos. Bob if you get to Montana you let me know 😀
Also I seen that really hot vent that you can put out the window, someone put like a sleeve over it to Incase that hot hose so that less heat would radiate off it out into the van. I'm going to try that.
Also my van is not insulated but Montana Summers do not get too hot it's the winter I would worry about . Again I am just thankful to have this Van to move into. Everything else can come on its own time. God is good.
I like your videos, I own one and I absolutely LOVE it. No more miserable days and hot fitful nights. got it on sell 1200 with battery. To me it was one of the best investments I've made.
The best, authentic review I have seen yet. It goes beyond the technical analysis of the item and really focuses on the consumer and the practical application of this AC unit. Thank you Bob for making us a priority and speaking to our needs and concerns. I heard the the things I wanted to hear about value, function and how it's going to perform in specific situations. No one wants to buy something, only to have to return it when it can't perform adequately to meet your needs. This would have failed spectacularly for what we wanted to use it for. Again, thank you for making US the priority! THIS is what I call an honest review.
When it gets that warm out, I think it's time to move north or up in the mountains. A short drive up in the mountains makes a huge difference when you gain altitude. If desperate you can always wet a cloth and put it on your neck and head, and wet your hair and put a fan on, it works. Good honest review as always. Thank you, Bob.
While working on the road I live in a small homemade camper on back of my bucket truck that's 25square feet. The camper is just to sleep at night and this ac unit works great causing me to use 3 blankets but its a small space. In ecomode it will run all night on the battery and i have a ecoflow powerstation 3000w hours so i am able to run on medium all night and still have 50percent power in the morning. Without it i would have to pay 100 a night for a hotel to include the diesel for the truck to get there and and downtime getting back and forth to the job site that moves constantly. This unit saved me 34k in fuel and hotel cost last year alone. I have also purchased (2) 400 watt portable solar panels in case of a serious event with the power grid. The d2m power unit is expandable also. All the products together with the 12v fridge works great. Also to combat the heat from the output pipe i have wrapped it in pipe insulation and no heat makes it into the camper. Wish i had a way to attach pics of the build
Thanks, Bob. I really appreciate the fact on you tell us how it can work rather than just telling us well it won’t work or it will work or it’s bad or it’s good because most products have some good and bad or rather they just have normal limitations so I love the fact that you said if you have 700 W, you can use this item and you walk us through the thought process Because the bottom line is machine requires X amount of wattage to run around the clock. And that’s true of any given machine.
I tried this and got even worse results. In cooler weather AND using it plugged straight into an electric hookup. Wish I would’ve had this review sooner and saved a colossal amount of $$. Thanks Bob!! Appreciate your integrity.
As far as space for the main unit someone could mount it on outside of their van using a hitch mounted cargo carrier and build some sort of enclosure to protect it from the elements. Then somehow rig up hose connections to round cutouts on the rear doors for the hoses with interior grills over them that you somehow can close off when the unit is not in use. Obviously when connected you would not be able to open the rear doors so it does not solve all problems but its just one idea I had.
Hi Bob! I'm just setting mine up. I live in an RV and its AC broke down, so the Wave 2 is my emergency AC until it gets repaired. Just want to say that in Hobotech's UA-cam review, he mentioned one should wrap some sort of insulation around the tubes that go out the window so that heat doesn't get into the room.
I've looked all over at different ideas for AC. I've also experimented and come up with more elaborate ideas. I'm in an Ext Express. At the end of the day, spending more on a battery system and just getting a window unit seems the best option. I went to the junk yard and bought a spare rear driver's side door with a window (I wanted to experiment and my original didn't have a window cutout). Rear doors are way easier to remove than side barn doors as they have bolts. Side doors are pinned on and a real pain. I saw on Endgame's channel here on youtube that he built a sort of hidaway for his window unit install that made everything look more "stealth" or at least presentable. I'll be copying that for my build and I'm near certain that will be one of the easiest and best looking build's for this purpose. The reason for boxing it in that way is that sometimes I work in more affluent areas with HOA and, as you may know, they look for any reason to fine or kick people out. That sort of install keeps it looking more like a service vehicle.
Thank you. That was very helpful. I have a 23' RV, with an Ecoflow Delta 2 Max, plus 2 100ah lithium batteries AND an additional 12v 9000 btu roof ac (plus the traditional 12,500 btu Dometic AC which requires the generator or shore cord plugin to operate). I was curious about the Wave 2. And I just spent the last hour watching various UA-cam reviews about it. Your review was by far the most informative. You covered virtually every question I had. I appreciate the work you put into this review and this video.
Your review is spot on. I bought one last year and perhaps my only regret is buying the battery bank too. I have a Promaster and do have room to set this up on my counter behind the driver’s seat. Etsy has a great plexiglass insert for the air intake and exhaust hoses for the driver’s window, I added an insulated “blanket” for that hot exhaust hose and an extra long hose to duct the cool air to my bed. I don’t like the time it takes to set this up, and consider that it is just for when I need to be somewhere that it is hot at night (rare occasion), and that I have shore power (also rare occasion…but will pay for the camping in a hot place or moochdock). For $900 this gives me flexibility over where I can go and stay comfortable without drilling holes and adding a lot of lithium to my system. It also allows me to feel secure being able to close and lock up and still stay cool. For anyone out there who has the money to spend on this, just know that it will only cool a small van about 10 degrees..with lots of steps taken to insulate (insulated window covers and insulated curtain to divide the cab). I do take my dog with me. (Don’t live in the van), and just would never trust this or anything to maintain temperature.
I am glad to see an honest review of one of these. I know if you ran it off an ECO Flow PowerStation with the DC connector it would take less power to run. I think most people show it taking about 300 watts that way. But unless you have one dedicated to it and enough solar to power everything, it would still take too much to run it and the space it takes up is important. I went with an 8000 btu Midea u shaped inverter window unit for my trailer, it works but also takes plenty of solar to keep it going all day. But my battery bank is big enough to keep it going all night. At the lowest compressor speed, it takes about 150 watts. At the highest compressor speed, it takes about 900 watts. Most of the time it is between 300 and 500 watts. It cost about $400 after taxes. If I was in the desert, I would probably go with a swamp cooler instead. The best thing about the window unit is that it takes very little space inside my trailer and is powered by my solar setup.
I use an electric car(90kWh) with free fast charging, to keep my two EcoFlow Delta Pros charged and utilize the Wave 2 really well in BC, Canada. I have a 13ft fiberglass trailer. I plan on getting the EcoFlow DC XT150i cable to make the Wave 2 DC powered, no inverter losses. I also plan on upgrading my solar (300W) to 2.4kW with the new Aptos 370W bifacial panels. Good honest input, I really enjoy your channel.
I roof top tent solo often and bring this when the nights are 80 plus. I’ve learned to only use it to cool the tent after sunset when I sleep with power supplemented with a 12v to 24v converter from my dual battery. With Solar recharge with about 400w of solar during the day I can run it for days. Wish it was lighter when lifting it into the tent.
This is so true and honest! I have an EcoFlow wave 2, and I pair it with an EcoFlow delta pro, and it really wasn’t all it was cracked up to be. I drive a truck and was hoping to be able to sleep in my cab overnight without idling, so I had some high hopes for it. When I finally got it up and running, my first thoughts were, “That’s it?” It wasn’t really even a hot night, but the machine itself made it warm inside the cab. I guess it drew a lot from my battery (fully charged) so the battery only lasted 4 hours. Even though it said the ambient temperature was down to 60 farhenheit, it was actually blowing out that air, and yet since the hoses were in the same room as me, the hoses heated up and it made me a bit warmer. Also, and not like a lot of people really pay attention to it anyway, both the EcoFlow delta pro and wave 2 generate relatively large electromagnetic fields. It even says in the manual that those people with a pacemaker need to be cautious about spending time around it. That should also say something. Even with shielding, it’s eh because the shielding needs to breathe, meaning that when it cools you down, you still need to find a way to circulate the air, and a fan likely won’t penetrate the shielding unless you place it inside the shield. You sleep with the fan on the outside, though, and you still end up getting too hot. So in a way, the wave 2 creates more problems than it does solutions. While it keeps the cab somewhat cool, it has a slew of other issues (takes up space, EMF field, not really that cool, generates heat through the tubing, heavy power draw, very costly compared to a regular old generator, etc). It’s a great idea, in theory, and to its credit, it is quiet, and no one would have a clue that you have an A/C unit running. It is electric, so hey, it is pumping out less fumes into the air. Obtaining the LiPO4 battery and the way it is produced is very questionable. As for practical applications, it needs more work. I don’t know that I can justify paying $3200 for the bundle pack (that is with the delta pro and wave 2 as my source). Bob is right in that the wave 2 costs less on its own (about $900 when you factor in tax or buy the battery with it, it is currently advertised as $799 as a standalone). Even with a small room, you have to question the ROI. If you save money in rent for a year, and your average rent is $1000 a month, maybe then if you were using it every night and not getting hotel rooms or any storage units, you could recoup the costs quickly, but if you are living a nomadic lifestyle, chances are you will have costs that will be hidden and unusual, things you didn’t have prior. Also, you need to think about the time it takes and the space it takes to set it up. If you don’t have a lot of room, the effort to operate this equipment takes exponentially longer to set up and move around the next day you can walk normally in your own space. The equipment is a bit heavy, so you don’t want to have to move it every day if you can help it. Once you factor those things in and add the cost of the unit(s), you then need to ask yourself how long you are willing to endure those conditions to make the ROI worth it. It’s tough to find out the resultant conditions of these devices without buying one for yourself. But if you do all that work and find you are not suffering too badly and can stick it out for a couple years (anywhere up to however many hot nights you anticipate experiencing), then I would say it is a justifiable purchase and recoups its value. Otherwise, it is not a wise purchase, and you are better off using other methods. Bottom line: this one is a long game, and for particular cases, it can work. However, just as Bob said, for the majority of people, it is not a wise purchase, and you are better off doing something else, even if that means using a regular generator. The numbers need to make sense. I really appreciate Bob taking the time to be honest about these cons, separate of what the companies want him to say. If they are good companies, they’ll take the criticism (“thanks for your feedback,” right?) and grow from it.
Thanks so much for mentioning emf. People make me feel foolish for doing it. I worry sbout getting panels for this reason, and often wonder if the panels create a field even when theyre not plugged in. I really dont like the ecoflow products i have because of the emf i worry about. When i get a new van, i will have to figure out how to isolate the emf/dirty electricity they create. We havr the same experience with the ecoflow products. The delta pro also throws heat!! These peoducts are so disappointing besides the charge times
Good honest video, but he leaves out a few good use case situations. We have an E150 conversion van, very basic camper setup, bed, cooler (no fridge), so our power needs are low. We often camp at sites that have a basic 120v outlet, not full RV hookups. The Ecoflow Wave fits nicely in between the front seats of the van and the ducts go out the drivers' side window where they are out of the way even though they are bulky. For this kind of camping it is perfect even with pets to keep cool. He's correct in that with our 200w solar/2kWh battery setup we would only be able to run it for a few hours in the evening when off grid, but even that is a big help to get a good nights sleep.
I use a Zero breeze in my 4runner, goes behind my driver seat. Works perfect with my 400AH of battery and DC-DC charger. Zero breeze has to be used in small space and have well insulted windows. Its draws only 20Amps max. Zero breeze won’t work in van unless you use like an insulated blanket to wall off your bed area but for my 4runner it’s awesome.
I really appreciate your forthright and no-nonsense review videos. One thing I don't get is why more people doing vanlife don't prioritize white vehicles. I know not everyone has the option to choose paint color when they're getting into vanlife, but it makes such a HUGE difference to comfort if you can, and it works hand-in-hand to optimize any cooling solution.
TY Sir, you are a gem! I am just beginning my budget build, with a plan for a very humble, full-time vanlife retirement. I have been seriously considering the Ecoflow 2 for several months and, with the recent "ON SALE" discounts they are offering, was on the verge of pulling the trigger. Though it pains me to have to surrender and need to go back to the drawing board, I cannot afford costly quality of life mistakes.
The best system we've seen so far is the AC split that Brian reviewed last year. Thank you for being honest and telling us what we need to know, Bob! I can't believe someone actually sent you a request to change your review after it was already posted; that took some nerve.
@@Canthus13 understood there is value still but overall everything is slanted and they don’t express complete reality, not because they are trying to be deceptive, although some are, but just because nobody wants to say anything negative.
I tested mine inside my jeep cabin. It'd blow cold but not as cold as the AC from the vehicle. Waiting for the next festival to use this with along with my rooftop tent. 👌🏻
Thank you so much for this video! It means the world that there's someone who tests all these products so we don't have to, and who's willing to give us honest (and detailed!) reviews so we can really trust them! Your channel is amazing and truly a life saver for any vanlifers and vanlife-want-to-be's in the future! Please keep making content and thank you so much for all you do.
First of all, thank you CheapRVliving for the video. It is much appreciated. Secondly, just about every video I'm watching on yt regarding heating/cooling in a van/camper talks about how "well" the units work, but rarely do any of them mention insulation variables. My guess is, the better the insulation, the better the results. I'm planning my camper DIY build with Structural Insulated Panels (SIP) which are extremely efficient, which would help with the power draw of the heat/AC unit tremendously. I just don't know what approach to take yet. I'm a huge fan of mini woodburning stoves for heat (venting out the side, not the top). I've also seen DIY air conditioners using coolers and ice. I'm currently trying to figure out how to make an ice maker work (very low power draw) as the ice source, and then feeding the ice maker with the melted ice from the cooler somehow. Any ideas?
Bob, you should really mention that with all A/C units, if you add a small auxiliary fan nearby that can even be run off of batteries, the additional airflow and movement of the air changes the results for the better on all A/C units currently on the market.
Hello again, Bob it's good to see you up and moving around. Thank you for your honest review. I'm sending a blanket prayer to you now for continued strength and good health. Toledo 💙
I do own this along with their Delta Max 2 and generator which all work together quite well and 800 watts of portable solar panels. I have to agree - it's a lot to tote around, and use cases are likely limited for the wave 2. I think it would be interesting to see other solutions like fans and such to try and cool tents or vehicles like a van or your ambulance. Always appreciate your reviews - we purchased the Skyline tent after watching one of your reviews for hot camping and very happy. Keep up the good work.
I have one and love it in my ambulance build. Just designed the build to accommodate the size. FYI you can use to port on the unit to directly insert solar.
I briefly contemplated getting an ice cube machine but the nearly 200 watts power is too much for my setup, compared to a USB fan that costs $5 and uses 3 watts. Main thing I learned is, do not park in direct sun, even with solar panels. If the solar panels can block sun and cool the vehicle, then fine. If not, then the amount of power gained from direct sun is not worth the power lost by cooling the added heat.
Get a Chinese air conditioner; I bought one for my van when I had it and I loved it. Used less power and cooled it off awesomely for 500 dollars and my 400watt panels and 5 agms @ 100watts had no problem running for hours….
Been saving up for a few years to afford AC in my van and after watching your video now I know I'm saving up to buy a GENERATOR to run an air conditioner that actually works. So maybe summer 2025 will finally be the year I have air conditioning in my van.
1:05 My family and friends pressured into getting an apt, but I don't want to keep paying $15K/yr. I lived in my Jeep with my Cat, while traveling from FL to CA and back for 9 months. I want to get a Cargo Van, and install a CATIO cage thru the floorboard that provides her with shelter, shade, cross breeze and a hiding place while I'm in the store or charging my Jackery; I was leaving all of my windows 1/2 way down with only a wire grate, that anyone could have easily broken into.
Thanks for the review!! To my knowledge the only real way to cool your van, ambulance, school bus, shuttle bus, or whatever you have is to use a mini split AC / heat pump if you have enough battery bank and solar input to handle it. The smallest mini splits would draw about the same amount of power but I am guessing about twice the BTU output of cooling. Like any heating or cooling system, really good insulation is your greatest friend.
This unit actually IS a heat pump, and will provide both heating and cooling. The two hoses form the "outdoor" loop, and the intake and outflow vents form in the indoor loop.
Temperature drops 3.6 degrees Fahrenheit every 1,000 feet of altitude. Anywhere north of San Francisco on the coast will be way cooler in the summer from the arctic ocean water. And a van in the open sun versus in the shade of trees in the forest makes another big difference. Being able to escape the heat in a cold lake or creek makes a difference too. With fairly accurate weather forecasts a week into the future van lifers should be able to drop the temperature of their vans as much or more as an Ecoflow Wave 2 with better planning and driving. Since my avatar is a squirrel I should also mention splooting: Laying on your tummy on a cool patch of ground. I have never had the guts to try this in public but it's a popular option with dogs, cats and squirrels.
The problem with the coast is that there are widespread restrictions along the coast in all 3 states north of SF about overnight parking. Just reminding folks.
Bob as many followers have stated, I love your channel, I can say it as well. You are always so informative! Thank You for covering this subject again, I had been considering this unit, you had mentioned the current pricing was lower. I’m in the middle of building out a VW Syncro that never had air conditioning installed and I’ve been looking at options. After this detailed description on the unit it is for sure not for my application. I do like the EcoFlow company in general but I will move on from this unit! Thx again, Frank M
Honesty is the best policy !!! Just a thought Bob, not a nomad here but in heat and humidity would a dehumidifier benefit people - it's smaller and more compact. It seems to help in my house even w/out running the A/C. 90F in the desert and in Florida aren't the same.
There is no doubt a need and a demand for a product that will cool a van at an affordable price which doesn't eat up all of your power. The fact that they sent this to you tells me they want to develop that product. I believe that your feedback to them will help them to move towards a solution. Fingers crossed! Thanks for another great video!
I have a ZeroBreeze Mk 2, which is a 2300 BTU unit. I would run it a couple hours at night to cool off the back half of a high top van before going to sleep. I could usually get 3.5 days out of the ZeroBreeze Mk 2 battery with basically just cooling half my high top down before going to sleep.
I have a Dometic air-co installed in the ceiling, so takes up no space and the heat transfer goes outside. Works great. Loud though and uses a lot of juice. Really only use it to keep my pup cool when I run in for groceries or to take a hike. But glad I have it. Thx for the video!
Thanks, Bob. I spent many hours this week trying to decide whether to pop for one. I had already ruled it out (mostly on the basis of reviews of Ecoflow's customer service = bad), but I feel better about the decision now. (LOL at wearing Bluetti hat while doing this...)
Thanks for the honest review! Temperature regulation is such a hard thing to solve in hot/humid climates. Have you tried the newer, 12v truck AC units that Dometic sell? The small model is intriguing, if not for the prohibitive price point.
This thing would be an absolute must-buy if it were 400-500 bucks. I bought a refurb with a battery pack for 900 bones, and after testing the living hell out of and building out ducting for it, etc. I just gave up on it and returned it. Bulky, not gonna play nice with humidity, and you gotta build your own window interface while wrestling with huge tubes. If you duct it and point it right at your face while you're in the shade it's fine, but otherwise? Knock out a window, get with an engineer friend to build a brace, and get to engineering a less elegant AC unit solution.
I own one, and I agree with your assessment. I did however find that if the tubes can be insulated (in my case I used a couple jackets and bungy cords), it added about 30% efficiency. Respects
I have the first eco wave flow. It’s bigger, 800ah battery. I does cool my ambulance good. I have a designated 200w solar panel on the roof of my ambulance to charge the air conditioner and my various power stations. The new eco flow wave 2 also has heat.
I just love this guy!! Bob you are indeed the most honest person with unmatched integrity. I highly value your opinion on these products not to mention your valuable wisdom and expertise on nomad life. And the fact that you can't be "bought" is of the utmost highest characteristic value!! You are one in a quadrillion zillion👍😬💪. And the only channel on nomading and nomad products I really take to hear and trust. Keep up your magnificent work!! Your morals and values are most certainly appreciated!!!
Bob, Bob, Bob, your honesty (you can't be bought!) is what draws so many people to you (and your wisdom, of course!). 😄 I don't usually do that sort of thing, but I just wrote to the Zero Breeze company to tell them how appalled I was to learn that they had tried to pressure you into changing your review! I told them they should've thanked you for the free input you gave them on how to improve their ill-conceived product. There. I said it! 😄
The best solution I've seen, by far, is a mini split A/C with a soft start and solar. I don't remember how much solar they had but was surprised that it didn't need more, and they ran it 24/7! I've never seen anything to match it.
Thank you Bob, for your Video. Maybe you've already mentioned it - I have stretched 2 large tarps on telescopic poles over my rooms. It has the same effect as a tent. If you have 2 "walls", the temperature is reduced by 5-10 degrees. Even if that is not always enough, the power required for cooling devices is certainly significantly reduced. In addition, the noise in the vehicle is reduced when it rains. A simple solution with a clear effect.
Not even a nomad but I greatly enjoy your videos!
I'm not a nomad anymore; but, love Bob's reviews n suggestions for my 288sf tiny house🙂
Not a nomad YET 😊
You're the only UA-camr I do trust the reviews. Thank you, for taking massive amount of time & effort on the reviews.
me too!!
True, Bob is one of the few reviewers who can give an honest warts n' all opinion
I know I can trust you (CheapRVLiving) when you did the toilet video where you said your poop is good as anyone else. Thank you!
I used to hear stories told a long time ago.
They were about something called integrity.
It's difficult to recognize, because it's been such a long time, but I think I just saw some.
💯 agree
Right? Thx for the honest review bob.
Thank you for Truly considering us in your reviews. This is just one thing we love you for. Thanks Bob
You're the only person on UA-cam I've seen give honest reviews for stuff you get for free. It means a lot to us!
Have you checked out Project Farm?
Project Farm.
It seems that my little swamp-cooler works better than that huge heat producing box. Thank you for your honesty Bob.
So that just a cooler, with a fan filled with ice?
Moisture from a Swamp Cooler in Humid Areas, Grows Deadly Mold
Had one a few summers ago in an arid place. Worked great. Put out a lot of moisture from the cold ice. Had to sit in front of it. What relief in triple degree days. The air conditioner in that last place was built a bit funky. There was an a/c that was positioned just above the wash machine closet drain pipe. Had place dry towels a few times to monitor the moisture, dampness but this was ok because during on peak hours I could place in front of a portable fan to help cool, or use it for wiping spills or dust.
@@eveadame1059 a swamp cooler in humid areas wont work anyway.
It's great to get your honest review, Bob.
These honest reviews are Important for the manufacturers to hear, they need to know how a device like this needs to function for the people who are using it.
Exactly. They should appreciate Bob, not ask him to change his review.
I’ve been a trucker for nearly 30 years, living on the road. I’m also about to downsize from my small Wolf Pup travel trailer to just living out of my pickup truck.
My point is that I bought a Stanley/Lasko high velocity blower fan several years ago, and I carry it around everywhere on the road. It’s just a fan but has been the absolute best thing to keep air circulating comfortably. I’ve been stuck in Miami, FL with a broken AC in the peak of summer heat and was quite comfortable. It only cost about $50 on Amazon.
It used ac current, so I plug it into my little 300 watt inverter and never have any issues with it.
Thank you for sharing this. Can you say which one, because there are several.
Thank you
Bob, you are the man! We love your brutally honest reviews and commentary! Keep the info and videos coming.
@@DarrenRiveyhe did say it could work for a few, you’re just being negative
Mabey do a video on a 12,000 but inverter A/C. They are very unique and cost only about $400 bucks with little amp draw. Need an inverter for 120 v but will be less power and cool way better. But must be vented outside just like a window unit. Great videos!
Thank you for your honesty
The company that really listens to your critiques and manages to provide a product that really meets our needs will make an absolute killing
First, I am a huge ECOFLOW fan and have Wave1 and Wave2 plus their Frig/freezer, River2 Pro and Delta Max 2000. They all work well for me! I use Wave1 and Wave2 in my small house in Montana: low humidity and I use the exhaust hoses with thermal wraps. I don't experience heat from the unit itself, but the exhaust hose - YES, which is why the thermal wrap. I have Wave2 in my "living room" which opens to my bedroom ... a floor fan to move air from living room to bedroom. Wave1 is in my "office" and cools that 11x11 south facing room plus another fan to move air to adjoining kitchen. My house is '85 vintage. I have the aux battery for WAVE2 but at "home", I am plugged in so power is not an issue. BUT, I did test battery and consistently get 7 hours at 90F temps.
In my RV, I have used the units for off grid. Now, 33 foot Class A motorhome, 2 slides and I do have a 5K Onan gen but prefer not to use it except to recharge.
IDK ... I am very happy with Wave1 and Wave2 in my situation. I am planning on downsizing to ??? and even if a van, I would put Wave2 in passenger area vented out passenger window with cool air hose to living area. I know minimal insulation in a van vs home vs motorhome AND I never intend to be in temps of 100!!!
So ... my experience.
I have a converted E250 Ford van. No high top. I don’t like to be hot…so air conditioning was very important to me. I removed the back window and replaced it with a thick piece of wood paneling…painted white. I cut out a square hole for my 5000 BTU A/C and installed it there. It works great and probably doesn’t use as many watts as that Eco Flo A/C unit. Plus I don’t have to worry about lugging it around or taking up too much space. It certainly would not be any worse of an eye sore as that EcoFlow model either. It’s installed in the back window out of the way of the interior and works great!
Thank you for putting us first
What an incredibly gorgeous mountain range behind you!!! WOW!!!
I was thinking the same! It’s absolutely stunning!
I was wondering the same thing! Being from AZ i was curious to know where this is.
Yesss!
My first thought.
Where is this?
I was about to say the same thing.
I found that a small window ac is about the best thing for me, I have a Haier 5000 btu unit that draws about 600 watts at max and an average of 250-400 watts for most of the day and partway into the night. It only cost about $100 new and about an hour and $30ish to mount it so it exhausts to the outside, there are a lot of resources online about how to do this. I did this shortly after you did a video with a fellow in a small travel trailer with a dog, he was really into the solar oven thing too but I forgot his name :( super interesting fellow though. Anyways, 800 watts of solar with a 200 amp-hour lithium battery runs my little ac fine with no problems whatsoever! All the panels and battery, wiring, controller, and the AC was pretty close to the price of just this unit.
Can you show a picture of this product? We would be grateful
I have a Walmart $200 keystone 5,000 btu window ac in my van and it works very well. It is an energy star model, which is important for conserving power, and it draws 360-380 watts when the compressor is running, and 60 when it is not and just the fan runs. In eco mode, which I run all the time, the compressor only kicks on now and then. I power it with my Bluetti AC200P easily with no problems. This unit can make my van ice cold even in the hot Kentucky summer. Many people tell me window units will not last long in a van, and I should have installed a $3,500 unit designed for vans and rv use. We'll, Walmarts are everywhere and if/when it blows up,I will get another one. I have had it a year and so far so good. The truth is, I can buy a new unit every year for 16 years with the money it would have cost me for a "real" roof rv ac unit. I have a picture of my install on my channel where I am showing my diesel heater exterior install if anyone is interested.
Nice, how do you power it if it's cloudy for days? I run mine off a 700watt Honda gas generator, runs 2-3 days for $4.
@@OverlandOne where do you install it?
@@melissasmess2773if it's cloudy is probably not very hot
I use a mini swamp cooler I got from Home Depot. Takes 3 gal of water per day, and uses only 60 watts. Works great.
Which one?
I wish I lived in a dry enough climate to use a swamp cooler. They don’t do anything in Houston.
@@RG-hn6dgCorrect
@@RG-hn6dg I'm also in south Texas looking for a way to keep cool with solar. If you come up with anything, please let me know.
@@RG-hn6dg they do little to nothing for 80+% of the world. I understand they're a cheap solution (with a lot of downsides to consider, air moisture can be a huge issue in a confined space) but they're extremely limited in utility
Thank you. There is a mini split that plugs directly to solar panels. If sun is shining. Its working.
Glad to see you back on your feet ❤
Very accurate review. I have one in my 2022 Ram Promaster 1500. I got it and used it last year. It does not have a permanent spot in the van so I kept it on the floor next to my pantry and at night lifted it onto the passenger seat for venting out the passenger window. It is HEAVY!! I'm 67 and not weak, but having to move it from the floor to the seat every day was IRRITATING! But I couldn't live without it. I used it primarily at night so I could get good sleep. I live in San Diego County in the hot inland area. During the day I would drive down to the coast by the beach & find a tree to park under. At night I have obligations inland so the air conditioner was essential at night. Worth it? NO. HEAVY, huge power draw (thank goodness for shore power). Takes up a LOT of space. I felt I was a slave to it. No other options, though. I wish there were. I would sell it but I truly do need it. So, this year I will break my back moving it back and forth from the floor to the seat again. Oh ... and the hoses are a pain and are NOT built to be expanded & collapsed daily. I'm beginning to see cracks in them and will be getting out the duct tape soon. Edited: One other thing not mentioned in the video ... you have to collect the condensate. That's the water that builds up. There is a drain and hose that comes with the unit but you have to have some way to catch that water or it ends up all over the floor. It produces about a gallon over night depending on the humidity where you are.
Maybe you could get a longer vent hose, so you could leave the AC on the floor?
Jon in rural BC, Canada
@@JonTanOsbthe problem is the vent hose isn’t insulated so it just heats up the space inside as the hot air passes through. Like a radiator
Why not try a mini split or roof ac?
Glad to see you again. Watching from Belize. Living in Cayo. I live on my SS. ALL my bills total $800 USD . I live good here that includes a house cleaner. No cold weather and a USD is worth 2 BZD..... Mountains to the sea 2 hrs. Enjoying my life here, come join me.
And...folks speak English, folks are kind. Roads are narrow.
Sounds too good to be true. I’d like to hear the downside.
Start a UA-cam channel to tell us all about this I’m interested in this for retirement
Heard Belize has a High Crime situation 🤔
@@weareallamericans7358and we dont? 😆
Appreciate your honesty Bob. We need more of that everywhere.
Your honesty is gold and appreciated!
Thanks for being honest to the folks that NEED good and honest reviews.
Thank you for posting this review. I have owned the Wave 2 with the optional battery for about a year. I travel, live and work from a 19' travel trailer. While I did not initially purchase the Wave 2 to cool or heat the TT, I have tested the unit out in the TT and realized similar results to yours. What I do use the unit for is supplemental cooling for my SUV as I travel with my dog. It works well keeping this small space cool for my pup, but struggles to cool the TT. Should anyone want to make the investment to add this unit to your kit, please know that while it works, there are many concessions that one may want to consider before moving forward. For those who may want to use this unit in an RV or TT, I have found setting it up in the bedroom and closing the door to work well for cooling this room first. I then open the bedrrom door and use well-placed fans to circulate the cooled air. Thanks again for posting your findings. I was beginning to think that my experiences were unique to my particular unit.
if you have a smaller rig and lots of power this is great!
My friend has an SUV and loves this. She uses her generator for about 90 minutes every day to charge this and her power station and that keeps everything running. She stores generator and A/C unit when not in use in a cargo box on her bumper.
I believe this is an option if you have power, space for storage, a small rig and money
I've lived in Montana for 63 years
I was recently forced out of being able to rent as some people from Idaho bought the home I rent.
I am on disability second pacemaker defibrillator...
They raise the rent so high that I only have $93. A month left to pay my power phone Van insurance, dog food.
I am so thankful I have my van.
It is a 1997 Chevrolet Express with a high top.
I bought the eco-flow Wave 2
For myself for my 63rd birthday May 11th.
It took me a long time to save for it,
Now I will save for the battery.
I do have a 200 watt solar panel on top of my van, that I used to run my 12 volt fridge/ freezer chest, and it keeps my phone and my tablet charged.
Thank you so much for the review, I love every one of your videos.
Bob if you get to Montana you let me know 😀
Also I seen that really hot vent that you can put out the window, someone put like a sleeve over it to Incase that hot hose so that less heat would radiate off it out into the van. I'm going to try that.
Also my van is not insulated but Montana Summers do not get too hot it's the winter I would worry about .
Again I am just thankful to have this Van to move into. Everything else can come on its own time.
God is good.
@@dawnmtwild5409 im in a van in montana and it's getting over 100 degrees inside my van. It definitely gets hot enough in montana for AC!
@@dawnmtwild5409 please stay safe! I'm also disabled and in a van and have to have AC to live.
I like your videos, I own one and I absolutely LOVE it. No more miserable days and hot fitful nights. got it on sell 1200 with battery. To me it was one of the best investments I've made.
The best, authentic review I have seen yet. It goes beyond the technical analysis of the item and really focuses on the consumer and the practical application of this AC unit. Thank you Bob for making us a priority and speaking to our needs and concerns. I heard the the things I wanted to hear about value, function and how it's going to perform in specific situations. No one wants to buy something, only to have to return it when it can't perform adequately to meet your needs. This would have failed spectacularly for what we wanted to use it for. Again, thank you for making US the priority! THIS is what I call an honest review.
When it gets that warm out, I think it's time to move north or up in the mountains. A short drive up in the mountains makes a huge difference when you gain altitude. If desperate you can always wet a cloth and put it on your neck and head, and wet your hair and put a fan on, it works.
Good honest review as always. Thank you, Bob.
Not if you have a pet. You have to be able to keep them cool and safe inside the van.
While working on the road I live in a small homemade camper on back of my bucket truck that's 25square feet. The camper is just to sleep at night and this ac unit works great causing me to use 3 blankets but its a small space. In ecomode it will run all night on the battery and i have a ecoflow powerstation 3000w hours so i am able to run on medium all night and still have 50percent power in the morning. Without it i would have to pay 100 a night for a hotel to include the diesel for the truck to get there and and downtime getting back and forth to the job site that moves constantly. This unit saved me 34k in fuel and hotel cost last year alone. I have also purchased (2) 400 watt portable solar panels in case of a serious event with the power grid. The d2m power unit is expandable also. All the products together with the 12v fridge works great. Also to combat the heat from the output pipe i have wrapped it in pipe insulation and no heat makes it into the camper. Wish i had a way to attach pics of the build
I absolutely LOVE your honesty! It's why we turn to you over everyone else!!!
Thanks, Bob. I really appreciate the fact on you tell us how it can work rather than just telling us well it won’t work or it will work or it’s bad or it’s good because most products have some good and bad or rather they just have normal limitations so I love the fact that you said if you have 700 W, you can use this item and you walk us through the thought process Because the bottom line is machine requires X amount of wattage to run around the clock. And that’s true of any given machine.
I tried this and got even worse results. In cooler weather AND using it plugged straight into an electric hookup. Wish I would’ve had this review sooner and saved a colossal amount of $$. Thanks Bob!! Appreciate your integrity.
As far as space for the main unit someone could mount it on outside of their van using a hitch mounted cargo carrier and build some sort of enclosure to protect it from the elements. Then somehow rig up hose connections to round cutouts on the rear doors for the hoses with interior grills over them that you somehow can close off when the unit is not in use. Obviously when connected you would not be able to open the rear doors so it does not solve all problems but its just one idea I had.
Thanks for not trying to sell us that ball and chain. Guess I'll be chasing 70 degrees.
I’m going to be chasing 70 degrees as well! Kinda hard on the east coast of the country but I remain positive!
Thank you Bob! ❤
Hi Bob! I'm just setting mine up. I live in an RV and its AC broke down, so the Wave 2 is my emergency AC until it gets repaired. Just want to say that in Hobotech's UA-cam review, he mentioned one should wrap some sort of insulation around the tubes that go out the window so that heat doesn't get into the room.
I've looked all over at different ideas for AC. I've also experimented and come up with more elaborate ideas. I'm in an Ext Express. At the end of the day, spending more on a battery system and just getting a window unit seems the best option. I went to the junk yard and bought a spare rear driver's side door with a window (I wanted to experiment and my original didn't have a window cutout). Rear doors are way easier to remove than side barn doors as they have bolts. Side doors are pinned on and a real pain. I saw on Endgame's channel here on youtube that he built a sort of hidaway for his window unit install that made everything look more "stealth" or at least presentable. I'll be copying that for my build and I'm near certain that will be one of the easiest and best looking build's for this purpose. The reason for boxing it in that way is that sometimes I work in more affluent areas with HOA and, as you may know, they look for any reason to fine or kick people out. That sort of install keeps it looking more like a service vehicle.
Thanks for the info, Plantstho (and Endgame).
Thanks Bob you’re the Best
Haven't even started the video yet and i'm saying thank you so I don't forget to express my appreciation
We trust you Bob. Thank you for doing the review.
Thank you. That was very helpful. I have a 23' RV, with an Ecoflow Delta 2 Max, plus 2 100ah lithium batteries AND an additional 12v 9000 btu roof ac (plus the traditional 12,500 btu Dometic AC which requires the generator or shore cord plugin to operate).
I was curious about the Wave 2. And I just spent the last hour watching various UA-cam reviews about it.
Your review was by far the most informative. You covered virtually every question I had.
I appreciate the work you put into this review and this video.
I think I am a good judge of people and I trust you 100%
Your review is spot on. I bought one last year and perhaps my only regret is buying the battery bank too. I have a Promaster and do have room to set this up on my counter behind the driver’s seat. Etsy has a great plexiglass insert for the air intake and exhaust hoses for the driver’s window, I added an insulated “blanket” for that hot exhaust hose and an extra long hose to duct the cool air to my bed. I don’t like the time it takes to set this up, and consider that it is just for when I need to be somewhere that it is hot at night (rare occasion), and that I have shore power (also rare occasion…but will pay for the camping in a hot place or moochdock). For $900 this gives me flexibility over where I can go and stay comfortable without drilling holes and adding a lot of lithium to my system. It also allows me to feel secure being able to close and lock up and still stay cool. For anyone out there who has the money to spend on this, just know that it will only cool a small van about 10 degrees..with lots of steps taken to insulate (insulated window covers and insulated curtain to divide the cab). I do take my dog with me. (Don’t live in the van), and just would never trust this or anything to maintain temperature.
I am glad to see an honest review of one of these. I know if you ran it off an ECO Flow PowerStation with the DC connector it would take less power to run. I think most people show it taking about 300 watts that way. But unless you have one dedicated to it and enough solar to power everything, it would still take too much to run it and the space it takes up is important. I went with an 8000 btu Midea u shaped inverter window unit for my trailer, it works but also takes plenty of solar to keep it going all day. But my battery bank is big enough to keep it going all night. At the lowest compressor speed, it takes about 150 watts. At the highest compressor speed, it takes about 900 watts. Most of the time it is between 300 and 500 watts. It cost about $400 after taxes. If I was in the desert, I would probably go with a swamp cooler instead. The best thing about the window unit is that it takes very little space inside my trailer and is powered by my solar setup.
I use an electric car(90kWh) with free fast charging, to keep my two EcoFlow Delta Pros charged and utilize the Wave 2 really well in BC, Canada. I have a 13ft fiberglass trailer. I plan on getting the EcoFlow DC XT150i cable to make the Wave 2 DC powered, no inverter losses. I also plan on upgrading my solar (300W) to 2.4kW with the new Aptos 370W bifacial panels. Good honest input, I really enjoy your channel.
Hey Bob, try the backpack mini split unit! Very curious about that.
Agreed. Compact enough to work and roughly the same price as this monster.
I roof top tent solo often and bring this when the nights are 80 plus. I’ve learned to only use it to cool the tent after sunset when I sleep with power supplemented with a 12v to 24v converter from my dual battery. With Solar recharge with about 400w of solar during the day I can run it for days. Wish it was lighter when lifting it into the tent.
This is so true and honest! I have an EcoFlow wave 2, and I pair it with an EcoFlow delta pro, and it really wasn’t all it was cracked up to be. I drive a truck and was hoping to be able to sleep in my cab overnight without idling, so I had some high hopes for it. When I finally got it up and running, my first thoughts were, “That’s it?” It wasn’t really even a hot night, but the machine itself made it warm inside the cab. I guess it drew a lot from my battery (fully charged) so the battery only lasted 4 hours. Even though it said the ambient temperature was down to 60 farhenheit, it was actually blowing out that air, and yet since the hoses were in the same room as me, the hoses heated up and it made me a bit warmer. Also, and not like a lot of people really pay attention to it anyway, both the EcoFlow delta pro and wave 2 generate relatively large electromagnetic fields. It even says in the manual that those people with a pacemaker need to be cautious about spending time around it. That should also say something. Even with shielding, it’s eh because the shielding needs to breathe, meaning that when it cools you down, you still need to find a way to circulate the air, and a fan likely won’t penetrate the shielding unless you place it inside the shield. You sleep with the fan on the outside, though, and you still end up getting too hot. So in a way, the wave 2 creates more problems than it does solutions. While it keeps the cab somewhat cool, it has a slew of other issues (takes up space, EMF field, not really that cool, generates heat through the tubing, heavy power draw, very costly compared to a regular old generator, etc). It’s a great idea, in theory, and to its credit, it is quiet, and no one would have a clue that you have an A/C unit running. It is electric, so hey, it is pumping out less fumes into the air. Obtaining the LiPO4 battery and the way it is produced is very questionable. As for practical applications, it needs more work. I don’t know that I can justify paying $3200 for the bundle pack (that is with the delta pro and wave 2 as my source). Bob is right in that the wave 2 costs less on its own (about $900 when you factor in tax or buy the battery with it, it is currently advertised as $799 as a standalone). Even with a small room, you have to question the ROI. If you save money in rent for a year, and your average rent is $1000 a month, maybe then if you were using it every night and not getting hotel rooms or any storage units, you could recoup the costs quickly, but if you are living a nomadic lifestyle, chances are you will have costs that will be hidden and unusual, things you didn’t have prior. Also, you need to think about the time it takes and the space it takes to set it up. If you don’t have a lot of room, the effort to operate this equipment takes exponentially longer to set up and move around the next day you can walk normally in your own space. The equipment is a bit heavy, so you don’t want to have to move it every day if you can help it. Once you factor those things in and add the cost of the unit(s), you then need to ask yourself how long you are willing to endure those conditions to make the ROI worth it. It’s tough to find out the resultant conditions of these devices without buying one for yourself. But if you do all that work and find you are not suffering too badly and can stick it out for a couple years (anywhere up to however many hot nights you anticipate experiencing), then I would say it is a justifiable purchase and recoups its value. Otherwise, it is not a wise purchase, and you are better off using other methods. Bottom line: this one is a long game, and for particular cases, it can work. However, just as Bob said, for the majority of people, it is not a wise purchase, and you are better off doing something else, even if that means using a regular generator. The numbers need to make sense.
I really appreciate Bob taking the time to be honest about these cons, separate of what the companies want him to say. If they are good companies, they’ll take the criticism (“thanks for your feedback,” right?) and grow from it.
Thanks so much for mentioning emf. People make me feel foolish for doing it. I worry sbout getting panels for this reason, and often wonder if the panels create a field even when theyre not plugged in. I really dont like the ecoflow products i have because of the emf i worry about. When i get a new van, i will have to figure out how to isolate the emf/dirty electricity they create. We havr the same experience with the ecoflow products. The delta pro also throws heat!! These peoducts are so disappointing besides the charge times
Good honest video, but he leaves out a few good use case situations. We have an E150 conversion van, very basic camper setup, bed, cooler (no fridge), so our power needs are low. We often camp at sites that have a basic 120v outlet, not full RV hookups. The Ecoflow Wave fits nicely in between the front seats of the van and the ducts go out the drivers' side window where they are out of the way even though they are bulky. For this kind of camping it is perfect even with pets to keep cool. He's correct in that with our 200w solar/2kWh battery setup we would only be able to run it for a few hours in the evening when off grid, but even that is a big help to get a good nights sleep.
Had this sitting in my Amazon cart for a month debating. Glad I found your video. Thank you.
Price alone is a no go. Bob don't expect to many companies to ask you to review their products, you're to honest. 👍👍
I use a Zero breeze in my 4runner, goes behind my driver seat. Works perfect with my 400AH of battery and DC-DC charger. Zero breeze has to be used in small space and have well insulted windows. Its draws only 20Amps max. Zero breeze won’t work in van unless you use like an insulated blanket to wall off your bed area but for my 4runner it’s awesome.
yeah the heat is my enemy so much more than the cold. i concur :) thank you for your unboxing.
I really appreciate your forthright and no-nonsense review videos. One thing I don't get is why more people doing vanlife don't prioritize white vehicles. I know not everyone has the option to choose paint color when they're getting into vanlife, but it makes such a HUGE difference to comfort if you can, and it works hand-in-hand to optimize any cooling solution.
TY Sir, you are a gem! I am just beginning my budget build, with a plan for a very humble, full-time vanlife retirement. I have been seriously considering the Ecoflow 2 for several months and, with the recent "ON SALE" discounts they are offering, was on the verge of pulling the trigger. Though it pains me to have to surrender and need to go back to the drawing board, I cannot afford costly quality of life mistakes.
The best system we've seen so far is the AC split that Brian reviewed last year. Thank you for being honest and telling us what we need to know, Bob! I can't believe someone actually sent you a request to change your review after it was already posted; that took some nerve.
At least I can count on your honesty. Most UA-cam videos just hype up products.
I've found reviews are usually fine. A lot of people mistake paid promotions for reviews, though.
@@Canthus13 understood there is value still but overall everything is slanted and they don’t express complete reality, not because they are trying to be deceptive, although some are, but just because nobody wants to say anything negative.
Have been looking at this thanks for helping me not waste $$$
I tested mine inside my jeep cabin. It'd blow cold but not as cold as the AC from the vehicle. Waiting for the next festival to use this with along with my rooftop tent. 👌🏻
this man is more honest then any real life person ive met in a long time... thank you alot! subscribed for your honesty.
Thank you so much for this video! It means the world that there's someone who tests all these products so we don't have to, and who's willing to give us honest (and detailed!) reviews so we can really trust them! Your channel is amazing and truly a life saver for any vanlifers and vanlife-want-to-be's in the future! Please keep making content and thank you so much for all you do.
First of all, thank you CheapRVliving for the video. It is much appreciated. Secondly, just about every video I'm watching on yt regarding heating/cooling in a van/camper talks about how "well" the units work, but rarely do any of them mention insulation variables. My guess is, the better the insulation, the better the results. I'm planning my camper DIY build with Structural Insulated Panels (SIP) which are extremely efficient, which would help with the power draw of the heat/AC unit tremendously. I just don't know what approach to take yet. I'm a huge fan of mini woodburning stoves for heat (venting out the side, not the top). I've also seen DIY air conditioners using coolers and ice. I'm currently trying to figure out how to make an ice maker work (very low power draw) as the ice source, and then feeding the ice maker with the melted ice from the cooler somehow. Any ideas?
Bob, you should really mention that with all A/C units, if you add a small auxiliary fan nearby that can even be run off of batteries, the additional airflow and movement of the air changes the results for the better on all A/C units currently on the market.
Hello again, Bob it's good to see you up and moving around. Thank you for your honest review. I'm sending a blanket prayer to you now for continued strength and good health. Toledo 💙
I do own this along with their Delta Max 2 and generator which all work together quite well and 800 watts of portable solar panels. I have to agree - it's a lot to tote around, and use cases are likely limited for the wave 2. I think it would be interesting to see other solutions like fans and such to try and cool tents or vehicles like a van or your ambulance. Always appreciate your reviews - we purchased the Skyline tent after watching one of your reviews for hot camping and very happy. Keep up the good work.
I have one and love it in my ambulance build. Just designed the build to accommodate the size. FYI you can use to port on the unit to directly insert solar.
Thank you Bob for being so honest!
🙏😊👍🏼
The only thing stopping me from full time van life is the cooling problem
Same here.
I briefly contemplated getting an ice cube machine but the nearly 200 watts power is too much for my setup, compared to a USB fan that costs $5 and uses 3 watts. Main thing I learned is, do not park in direct sun, even with solar panels. If the solar panels can block sun and cool the vehicle, then fine. If not, then the amount of power gained from direct sun is not worth the power lost by cooling the added heat.
Get a Chinese air conditioner; I bought one for my van when I had it and I loved it. Used less power and cooled it off awesomely for 500 dollars and my 400watt panels and 5 agms @ 100watts had no problem running for hours….
*same*
@@HH_A.M. Do you have a link to that? I have never heard of one. TY
Been saving up for a few years to afford AC in my van and after watching your video now I know I'm saving up to buy a GENERATOR to run an air conditioner that actually works. So maybe summer 2025 will finally be the year I have air conditioning in my van.
1:05 My family and friends pressured into getting an apt, but I don't want to keep paying $15K/yr. I lived in my Jeep with my Cat, while traveling from FL to CA and back for 9 months.
I want to get a Cargo Van, and install a CATIO cage thru the floorboard that provides her with shelter, shade, cross breeze and a hiding place while I'm in the store or charging my Jackery; I was leaving all of my windows 1/2 way down with only a wire grate, that anyone could have easily broken into.
I have one of those 12v mini splits, it works great,does well running on my 600v solar charging system..✌
@Penny-mk7fv Or maybe a lightening bolt? 😆
Honest reviews just earned you another follower my friend.
Thank you for sharing your open experience and wisdom with US, Bob. You are very appreciated… or you wouldn’t be popular. 🙂
Thanks for the review!! To my knowledge the only real way to cool your van, ambulance, school bus, shuttle bus, or whatever you have is to use a mini split AC / heat pump if you have enough battery bank and solar input to handle it. The smallest mini splits would draw about the same amount of power but I am guessing about twice the BTU output of cooling. Like any heating or cooling system, really good insulation is your greatest friend.
This unit actually IS a heat pump, and will provide both heating and cooling. The two hoses form the "outdoor" loop, and the intake and outflow vents form in the indoor loop.
Temperature drops 3.6 degrees Fahrenheit every 1,000 feet of altitude. Anywhere north of San Francisco on the coast will be way cooler in the summer from the arctic ocean water. And a van in the open sun versus in the shade of trees in the forest makes another big difference. Being able to escape the heat in a cold lake or creek makes a difference too. With fairly accurate weather forecasts a week into the future van lifers should be able to drop the temperature of their vans as much or more as an Ecoflow Wave 2 with better planning and driving. Since my avatar is a squirrel I should also mention splooting: Laying on your tummy on a cool patch of ground. I have never had the guts to try this in public but it's a popular option with dogs, cats and squirrels.
The problem with the coast is that there are widespread restrictions along the coast in all 3 states north of SF about overnight parking. Just reminding folks.
Bob as many followers have stated, I love your channel, I can say it as well. You are always so informative! Thank You for covering this subject again, I had been considering this unit, you had mentioned the current pricing was lower. I’m in the middle of building out a VW Syncro that never had air conditioning installed and I’ve been looking at options. After this detailed description on the unit it is for sure not for my application. I do like the EcoFlow company in general but I will move on from this unit!
Thx again,
Frank M
Honesty is the best policy !!! Just a thought Bob, not a nomad here but in heat and humidity would a dehumidifier benefit people - it's smaller and more compact. It seems to help in my house even w/out running the A/C. 90F in the desert and in Florida aren't the same.
There is no doubt a need and a demand for a product that will cool a van at an affordable price which doesn't eat up all of your power. The fact that they sent this to you tells me they want to develop that product. I believe that your feedback to them will help them to move towards a solution. Fingers crossed! Thanks for another great video!
I trust you. You are so honest.
I purchased this for my school bus and sent it back definitely wasn’t a fan… thanks for giving me the courage❤❤
Thank you so much for your integrity! I'm thankful it still exists.
Finally a truthful review on these, too big plus the huge hoses. Thanks. Now test the ecoflow dc to dc with the delta 2 max.
Thanks for testing it, and giving us the context of why it will work for a few, and why it's not reasonable for most. Thanks!
I have a ZeroBreeze Mk 2, which is a 2300 BTU unit. I would run it a couple hours at night to cool off the back half of a high top van before going to sleep. I could usually get 3.5 days out of the ZeroBreeze Mk 2 battery with basically just cooling half my high top down before going to sleep.
I have a Dometic air-co installed in the ceiling, so takes up no space and the heat transfer goes outside. Works great. Loud though and uses a lot of juice. Really only use it to keep my pup cool when I run in for groceries or to take a hike. But glad I have it. Thx for the video!
Thanks, Bob. I spent many hours this week trying to decide whether to pop for one. I had already ruled it out (mostly on the basis of reviews of Ecoflow's customer service = bad), but I feel better about the decision now. (LOL at wearing Bluetti hat while doing this...)
Thank you for a very rare honest and practical review for normal people.
Too many UA-camrs love the free stuff and give positive reviews.
Well done!
Thanks for the honest review! Temperature regulation is such a hard thing to solve in hot/humid climates. Have you tried the newer, 12v truck AC units that Dometic sell? The small model is intriguing, if not for the prohibitive price point.
This thing would be an absolute must-buy if it were 400-500 bucks. I bought a refurb with a battery pack for 900 bones, and after testing the living hell out of and building out ducting for it, etc. I just gave up on it and returned it.
Bulky, not gonna play nice with humidity, and you gotta build your own window interface while wrestling with huge tubes. If you duct it and point it right at your face while you're in the shade it's fine, but otherwise? Knock out a window, get with an engineer friend to build a brace, and get to engineering a less elegant AC unit solution.
Your honesty is SO APPRECIATED ❤️
Great vid as always Bob.
Thank you for all you do!
I own one, and I agree with your assessment. I did however find that if the tubes can be insulated (in my case I used a couple jackets and bungy cords), it added about 30% efficiency. Respects
Nice to hear from people who are using one. Thanks for your comment!
Bob, I love your honesty about this review..you told the honest truth and the pros and cons about this deal. Thank you.
I have the first eco wave flow. It’s bigger, 800ah battery. I does cool my ambulance good. I have a designated 200w solar panel on the roof of my ambulance to charge the air conditioner and my various power stations.
The new eco flow wave 2 also has heat.
I just love this guy!! Bob you are indeed the most honest person with unmatched integrity. I highly value your opinion on these products not to mention your valuable wisdom and expertise on nomad life. And the fact that you can't be "bought" is of the utmost highest characteristic value!! You are one in a quadrillion zillion👍😬💪. And the only channel on nomading and nomad products I really take to hear and trust. Keep up your magnificent work!! Your morals and values are most certainly appreciated!!!
Bob, Bob, Bob, your honesty (you can't be bought!) is what draws so many people to you (and your wisdom, of course!). 😄 I don't usually do that sort of thing, but I just wrote to the Zero Breeze company to tell them how appalled I was to learn that they had tried to pressure you into changing your review! I told them they should've thanked you for the free input you gave them on how to improve their ill-conceived product. There. I said it! 😄
You are the most honest person on UA-cam and I come here to learn the truth
The best solution I've seen, by far, is a mini split A/C with a soft start and solar. I don't remember how much solar they had but was surprised that it didn't need more, and they ran it 24/7! I've never seen anything to match it.
Thank you Bob, for your Video. Maybe you've already mentioned it - I have stretched 2 large tarps on telescopic poles over my rooms. It has the same effect as a tent. If you have 2 "walls", the temperature is reduced by 5-10 degrees. Even if that is not always enough, the power required for cooling devices is certainly significantly reduced. In addition, the noise in the vehicle is reduced when it rains. A simple solution with a clear effect.