Stay Cool Anywhere: How to Power Your Portable Air Conditioner with EcoFlow
You can never guarantee that any destination will have efficient air conditioning; that can mean exposing yourself to high temperatures and discomfort in the summer. However, if you invest in a portable air conditioner, you can control your immediate environment and ensure you stay cool no matter where you are.
But powering that portable AC is critical, and finding a reliable power source can be tricky when you're on the go. That’s where EcoFlow comes in. Here’s how EcoFLow can help you run your portable AC and stay cool no matter the circumstances.
What Is the Most Efficient Way To Run a Portable Air Conditioner?
When available, the most efficient way to run a portable air conditioner is to use a dedicated outlet that doesn’t share energy with other high-draw appliances or devices. If you don’t have wall power, your next best option is a portable power station backup or a solar generator.
If using a portable power station, you’ll want to opt for a high-capacity unit like the EcoFlow DELTA 3 Plus Solar Generator (PV220W) so it can sustain a cool temperature for a significant time. Solar power systems designed for off-grid operation are also excellent, as they can potentially power a portable AC indefinitely as long as sunshine is available.
How To Use EcoFlow To Power a Portable Air Conditioner
If you want to use EcoFlow’s range of products to run a portable air conditioner, you’ll need to know how to choose the right power source, connect the AC to this battery, and make the most of the technology to extend runtime.
Choose the Right EcoFlow Model for Your AC
To choose the right EcoFlow product for your portable AC, you need to determine a few things. First, the AC’s power draw in watts. Check for the unit’s running and startup watts, as the initial draw can be 2-3 times higher than the running wattage.
Next, determine how long you want to be able to run your AC, and multiply that by the wattage. That gives you an estimated range of the battery capacity you’ll need from the power source. As a guide, look for a battery with a minimum of 1000Wh for small units or 2000Wh for larger ACs.
How to Connect Your Portable AC to an EcoFlow Power Station
To connect your portable AC to an EcoFlow power station, you’ll need to ensure you have the proper outlet connection. You’ll most likely use EcoFlow’s standard 120V AC outlet. Before you plug anything in, confirm that the AC unit’s wattage won’t exceed the device’s continuous output rating.
Use a heavy-duty cord and connect, using the X-Boost feature to handle the AC’s high startup draw. Keep enough clearance away from the AC unit’s heat exhaust and internal cooling fan so they’re not blocked and can circulate airflow.
Maximize Runtime with EcoFlow
There are a few EcoFlow features you can harness to maximize your runtime. The first is Eco Mode. Eco Mode will reduce energy consumption to ensure eight hours of wireless use when using the EcoFlow WAVE 3 Portable AC as an all-in-one AC and power source. You can also use Eco Mode on the battery source to coordinate with your home’s energy flow to use solar power during the day and off-peak grid electricity at night.
Another trick is to lower the unit's fan speed to save extra power, change the air filter regularly, and schedule operation so it only runs when needed.
EcoFlow also has X-Boost, which allows you to use lower-capacity power stations to run AC units and handle surge power. Solar recharging using solar panels of 400W or higher (ideally) can run the AC or recharge the battery during the day for maximum efficiency.
Some other tips include scheduling the run time to use AC during peak solar production, when the sun is highest, adding batteries as needed to increase capacity, and disconnecting other non-essential devices to ensure all energy goes to the AC unit.
How Long Can EcoFlow Run a Portable AC?
The length of time an EcoFlow power source can run a portable AC depends on the AC’s wattage and the power source’s capacity. For example, a small power station like the EcoFlow RIVER 3 + 45W Solar Panel would have trouble running a 1000W AC unit, as its output is only 600W and its capacity is 286Wh.
On the other hand, the EcoFlow DELTA 3 Plus Solar Generator (PV200W) could run the same 1000W unit for a little over an hour. You can extend the runtime of the portable AC by finding a lower wattage unit, adding additional batteries to the solar generator, or choosing a solar generator or PPS with a higher output and capacity.
When To Use a Portable Air Conditioner?
Camping
RVing
Power outages
Targeted cooling at home
Garage workshops
Temporary housing
Seasonal spaces (sunrooms, etc.)
Event venues
Boat use
Non-AC equipped rental apartments
Frequently Asked Questions
How To Keep a Portable AC Running All the Time?
The best way to keep your portable AC running constantly is to connect it to a solar generator that can continuously recharge during peak sunlight hours. You can still use the portable AC at night using the reserved battery power. Another option is plugging it into an AC outlet.
Can I Use a Portable Air Conditioner in a Room Without a Window?
Yes, you can use a portable air conditioner in a room without a window if you have a device like the EcoFlow WAVE 3 Portable AC. It’s battery-powered and safe to use in enclosed spaces like rooms or tents. You must ensure adequate venting space around the unit to get proper airflow.
Should I Point My Portable Air Conditioner Up or Down?
Pointing your portable air conditioner upwards will allow it to mix with the warm air near the top and distribute the cooling evenly throughout the room. Cool air is heavier, so if you point it downward, it will not circulate through the room well and will sit toward the floor.
EcoFlow Devices Provide Backup Power for Portable Air Conditioners
EcoFlow devices like portable power stations and the EcoFlow DELTA 3 Plus Solar Generator (PV220W) can provide reliable backup power for your portable air conditioner. You can use it when camping, at event venues, working in the garage, or staying cool indoors anywhere you can’t control the central AC.
It’s simple: find a solution that meets the AC’s output and capacity needs and connect the two for long-term runtime. Use solar to ensure continuous use.