With summers intensifying the level of humidity and heat, air conditioners have become essential in staying comfortable, safe, and cool in your home or apartment.
If you’re unable to install a window unit due to building restrictions or design limitations, then a portable air conditioner is your best option.
To help you make the right decision, we’ve reviewed some of the best portable air conditioners available today. All these models cut down on humidity and cool a room efficiently, so make sure you go through the entire guide to find a unit that best suits your needs!
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Best Portable Air Conditioners
- OUR TOP PICK: LG LP1419IVSM
- RUNNER-UP: Midea MAP08R1CWT
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Haier HPND14XCT
Comparison of the Best Portable Air Conditioners
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How Do Portable Air Conditioners Work?
Portable air conditioners are designed with a standard window venting kit that repels exhaust. Most units are equipped with either one or two hoses that filter out hot air and cool the air inside the room. Generally, most models are constructed with some type of hose-based system.
In single-hose units, the hose pulls warm air present in the room into the unit, where the air conditioner’s motor cools it. On the other hand, dual-hose models suck in the fresh, cool air from outside your home and circulate it, while the second hose filters out the warm air at the same time.
LG LP1419IVSM
What Size Portable Air Conditioner Do I Need?
When it comes to choosing the right air conditioner size, BTUs or British Thermal Units are the most important thing you should consider. While there are other characteristics and features to take into account, selecting the right BTU for your environment, needs, and room is the most important decision.
As a rule of thumb, a portable air conditioner needs around 20 BTU for one square foot of floor space. To measure the square footage of the room, you’ll need to multiply the width of your room by the length. Some reliable BTU estimates include:
10,000 BTU for 300 square feet or less
10,000 to 14,000 BTU for 500 square feet
14,000+ BTU for rooms over 500 square feet
How to Choose a Portable Air Conditioner
With so many different technologies and products available in the market, choosing the right air conditioner can be extremely confusing. However, there are some factors that can make or break your decision. Some of these considerations include:
User Interface
Modern portable AC models are designed with touch panels, Wi-Fi capabilities, and remote controls. Make sure you choose a unit that’s easy to use and boasts useful features.
Energy Conservation
This feature is important for two reasons. Firstly, an energy-efficient unit lowers energy consumption and helps fight the present climate crisis. Secondly, models with low energy efficiency result in higher electrical bills.
It’s important to remember that low-quality units are usually energy inefficient.
Charging Power
For units that run with battery power instead of electricity, charging capabilities are incredibly important. If you’re leaning towards a battery-powered model, make sure it features a high power-retention ability. It’s advisable to stay away from models with low charge times.
Filtration Capabilities
Although some portable air conditioners only cool the air in the room, there are some models that filter and cleanse the air as well. While this is not a must-have feature, it’s still a beneficial one to have.
Shinco SPF2-08C
Review of the Best Portable ACs
Keeping the above factors in mind, we’ve selected and reviewed the best portable air conditioners available today. Make sure you go through the entire list before you finalize your decision.
Best Overall:
LG LP1419IVSM
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
The majority of buyers loved this unit and said that it worked pretty well for relatively small rooms. They were impressed with the included remote and LG app and liked the fact that it could be controlled and monitored using the phone. They also found the AC extremely straightforward and simple to use.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Most portable units are very similar, but this LG model offers better cooling performance, provides a more precise comfort level, consumes less energy, and makes less noise than other models. This difference is because it’s equipped with a DC-powered, dual-rotor compressor, which provides cool temperatures with around 40% more energy savings.
Furthermore, the unit operates at variable speeds, which allows it to reach the desired temperature in several different humidity and temperature conditions. It’s also designed with numerous smart features, including a remote, smartphone control through LG’s app, and compatibility with Amazon Alexa or Google Home. Lastly, it boasts smooth-gliding caster wheels, enabling users to easily move it around their office and home.
Bottom Line
This model’s dual-rotor variable-speed compressor allows it to offer a better comfort level while making it more effective and quieter than other units. All in all, it provides exceptional cooling power that will surely keep you cool and comfortable.
Runner-up:
Midea MAP08R1CWT
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most buyers were very pleased with this portable air conditioner and found it incredibly easy to set up and use. They stated that it provided extremely cold air and cooled the entire room very quickly. One user even said that they were able to sleep like a rock due to the comfort level it offered. Consumers reported that it was easy to register for the warranty as well.
Why it Stands Out to Us
With five modes and three fan speeds, this unit enables users to choose their desired settings from the included digital remote or the control panel. It is designed with four wheels, making it easier to move from one room to another.
Its remote also boasts a proximity sensor that detects the surrounding temperature, enabling the unit to achieve a more precise temperature control and offer users a better cooling experience. It further boasts auto-swing airflow louvers that circulate air around the room, making the entire space cooler and more comfortable.
Lastly, its energy-saving sleep mode automatically adjusts temperature overnight, while its reusable and removable air filter protects your family from pet hairs and dust.
Bottom Line
Overall, this three-in-one portable air conditioner can dehumidify and cool office spaces and homes quickly and efficiently, creating a more comfortable and relaxing environment. Its multi-function control panels allow users to set their desired fan speed and temperature, while its built-in hose ensures a hassle-free installation.
Best for the Money:
Haier HPND14XCT
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What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers stated that this unit worked exactly as advertised and recommended it to other people as well. They found the instructions to be clear and simple and loved the included dehumidifier and heating functions. Users also reported that it cooled a room quickly and efficiently, with one reviewer saying that they had to actually lower the speed to avoid freezing while sleeping!
Why it Stands Out to Us
Designed for rooms measuring up to 600 square feet, this versatile model boasts three different modes. The Fan mode circulates the air, the Cool mode cools the air, and the Dehumidify mode reduces the mugginess in the room during warmer months. The unit also gives users the option to choose from three fan speeds and three cooling speeds, allowing it to achieve and maintain their personal comfort level.
Moreover, the air conditioner features a 24-hour timer, so you can program it to turn off or on anytime you want. Its four-way air direction further directs the airflow to wherever you want it, while the included remote enables you to control the air conditioner without getting up.
Bottom Line
Boasting four-way air louvers and three fan speeds, this Haier model gives users better control over the airflow. It comes with several different features, including an electric control panel, a digital thermostat, a full-function remote control, and a 24-hour timer, making it an excellent product for those on a budget.
Best 14000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner:
Whynter ARC-143MX
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What Recent Buyers Report
Almost everyone who purchased this unit was extremely satisfied with it, with one user stating it cooled their room within five minutes. Buyers found it extremely easy to install and said that its auto-drain feature worked exactly as advertised. They also loved the included remote and reported that its operation was not too loud.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Featuring a built-in humidifier, the Whynter ARC-143MX is excellent at cooling rooms quickly, even on extremely hot days. With CFC-free refrigerant and lead-free components, it’s incredibly environment-friendly and energy-efficient.
The unit is designed with a reusable pre-filter that traps pet hair, dirt, and other allergens, while its activated carbon filter removes odors from the air. It also boasts an antimicrobial air filter to stop mildew and mold growth and keep the air free of any particles that could deteriorate the unit.
This model further stands out to us because of its dehumidifier mode. Featuring an auto-drain feature and a 91-pint capacity, you’ll rarely have to drain the reservoir manually.
Bottom Line
With its high BTUs, efficient EER rating, and dual-hose setup, the Whynter ARC-143MX is undoubtedly one of the best portable air conditioners available today. Its window kit and caster wheels make it extremely easy to install, and unlike other reservoirs, its tank does not need to be removed to drain the water.
Best Small Portable Air Conditioner:
Haier HPC12XCR
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What Recent Buyers Report
The Haier HPC12XCR has received mixed reviews. Some buyers were disappointed because of its loud operation, while others did not like the fact that it had to be drained frequently. However, some users stated that it had excellent cooling power and kept their room quite comfortable. They also found its styling to be very attractive and said that it was extremely easy to install.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This model stands out to us because of its numerous features and operation modes. It comes with a remote, so you can easily control the AC from across the room. The unit can also be programmed to turn off or on after running for set hours. This means that you can program it to switch on automatically at the time you arrive home from work.
The model’s portable and lightweight design further allows users to easily move it from one room to another. Its vent hose also extends up to five feet, so you can move the air conditioner away from the window it’s attached to if you want.
Lastly, the product itself is backed by a one-year warranty, while its compressor is backed by a five-year warranty, ensuring peace of mind.
Bottom Line
All in all, this efficient and lightweight unit offers excellent cooling performance, making it an ideal option for most rooms. It features several operation modes, so you can easily choose one that matches your need and comfort level.
Best 8000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner:
Shinco SPF2-08C
No products found.
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CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Almost everyone who purchased this unit was extremely pleased with it, with users stating that it immediately cooled the room. They loved the fact that it doubled as an air filter and didn’t need to be drained. One reviewer even said that they ran the AC for over eight hours and still didn’t have to deal with a single drop of water.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We like that this air conditioner operates at less than 56dB, so it won’t bother you when you’re working or sleeping. Its digital LED display controls allow you to make accurate temperature adjustments, while its remote control enables you to control the temperature from across the room. It also boasts built-in casters and a handle for portability, so you can easily move the unit to wherever you want.
Furthermore, it features three operational modes to enhance comfort – fan only, cool, and dehumidify. In confined spaces, the cooling mode can bring the temperature down by 10°F within ten minutes. Lastly, this unit’s dehumidifier option can remove 60 pints of moisture per day, making it incredibly versatile and ideal for crawl spaces, bathrooms, and other overly humid spaces in your room.
Bottom Line
All in all, this Shinco model is a great portable air conditioner that’s ideal for people on a budget. With a maximum area coverage of 200 square feet, it’s incredibly effective in spaces such as small offices, kitchens, living rooms, and bedrooms.
Best 10000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner:
Black + Decker BPACT10WT
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What Recent Buyers Report
Most buyers were extremely happy with their purchase and stated that the unit cooled the room quickly, quietly, and effectively. Users were impressed with the fact that it did not need any maintenance or repairs besides the cleaning of the vents and reported that it could cover a pretty large area.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Boasting a 10,000 BTU performance for rooms measuring between 150 and 250 square feet, this model is designed to reduce unwanted noise and even features a sleep mode for an especially quiet operation at night. It also boasts a bucket-less operation, which means that it will automatically evaporate condensation, so you won’t have to worry about dumping the water out.
Its remote-control feature further allows you to control the temperature from the comfort of your bed or couch. Lastly, it comes with a dehumidifier mode that prevents mold and mildew growth and keeps air both cool and dry.
Bottom Line
This Black + Decker unit perfectly balances the cooling of an air conditioner and the portability of a fan. With several noteworthy features like a 24-hour timer, an auto-fan setting, and auto water evaporation, it undoubtedly deserves a place on our list of top picks.
Best Portable Air Conditioner Under $300:
Costway Portable Air Conditioner
No products found.
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What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers loved this unit, with some stating that they would buy another one without a second thought. Users found the assembly to be intuitive and easy and said that the unit cooled rooms adequately. They also loved its compact and lightweight design and liked the fact that they could use the adjustable vents to control the airflow.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Costway portable air conditioner stands out to us for several different reasons. Firstly, it offers sleeping, fanning, cooling, and dehumidifying modes to meet users' different needs. The fan mode also offers two fan speeds, so you can easily choose the speed that makes you more comfortable.
Secondly, it’s designed with a washable dust filter that catches and removes dust particles from the air, increasing efficiency and extending the life of inner components. Lastly, the unit is designed with a user-friendly handle and smooth gliding casters, making it easier for you to lift and move the AC from one room to another.
Bottom Line
To sum up, this compact 8000 BTU air conditioner delivers fast and effective cooling for areas measuring up to 230 square feet, making it perfect for offices, cabins, and campers. Its two fan speeds and multiple function modes enhance comfort, while its remote control and four casters make it incredibly easy to use.
Best Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner:
Whynter ARC-14S
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What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers recommended this unit and stated that it delivered clean, filtered, and cold air. Users found the installation to be straightforward and the display to be easy to read. They also said that it was relatively quiet at medium speed and liked the fact that the backlight went out after a short time.
Why it Stands Out to Us
With an impressive 14,000 BTU rating, this unit can easily cool a 500 square feet room. It can also dehumidify 101 pints of water every day, turning a stuffy, dry room into a cool, comfortable space in no time. It’s further equipped with an activated carbon filter and a washable pre-filter to keep the air clean and fresh.
Unlike other models, this unit boasts a temperature range between 61°F and 89°F, enabling users to set their desired temperature, sit back, and let the AC do its work. Its 24-hour programmable timer also allows users to set a schedule, while its digital readout allows them to easily monitor and control the temperature.
Bottom Line
A Good Housekeeping top pick, the BTU capacity and amperage of this award-winning model undoubtedly make it a heavy-duty air conditioner. The dual hose mechanism cools a room faster than other models, while the fan and dehumidifier ensure that this unit meets every individual’s needs.
Best 12000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner:
Whynter Elite ARC-122DS
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What Recent Buyers Report
Most reviewers were impressed with the performance of this unit and found it to be incredibly powerful. They stated that it pumped a good amount of cold air and that it was easy to set up. Users also loved the fact that the compressor barely made any noise and liked this unit's easy mobility.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Designed to cool down rooms measuring up to 400 square feet, this 12,000 BTU model is the perfect solution for your office, server room, or any other constrained area. It’s equipped with a dual-stage filtration system that includes an activated carbon filter and a washable pre-filter. The pre-filter traps large dust particles and prevents them from entering your house, while the activated carbon filter removes odor molecules from the air.
The unit’s dual-hose design further prevents warm air from leaking into the room, ensuring quicker and more effective cooling. Lastly, the instruction manual is extremely easy to follow, and the AC can be set up in less than 30 minutes.
Bottom Line
The Whynter Elite ARC-122DS is one of the best portable air conditioners available in the market and certainly deserves the awards it has received. Boasting a quiet operation and a solid cooling power, it’s a product that can handle even the hottest summer days like a champ.
Portable Air Conditioner Pros and Cons
To help you decide whether a portable air conditioner is the best choice for you, we’ve listed the pros and cons of this appliance. It’s advisable to consider both aspects before you invest in a unit.
Pros
At its core, a portable air conditioner offers the benefits of air cooling without the noisiness and high costs that come with traditional AC units. Some of the main pros of this appliance include:
Cost-Saving
A portable air conditioner can significantly cut down your costs. Central air conditioners usually use more energy than portable units. Even if your home is already centrally air-conditioned, adding portable AC units to a few units can seriously drive down costs.
No Installation Required
With a portable model, you just need to unpack, plug it into a socket, and switch it on! This helps prevent the whole hassle of hiring a technician to drill the walls and install the unit in your home.
Easily Moved From One Place to Another
Due to its portability, you can easily use your portable unit in all the rooms of your house. You can place it in the bedroom at night and move it to the lounge if you have friends over the next day. You can also store it away safely during winters if you want some extra space in your room.
Cons
Every coin has two sides. Some of the drawbacks of a portable air conditioner include:
Unwanted Noise
The most important disadvantage of a portable unit is that it produces significant noise. So, if you’re someone that’s easily irritated by noise, then this appliance may not be the best option for you.
Midea MAP08R1CWT
Drain Tanks Need to Be Emptied Regularly
Some models are designed with tanks to store the water that’s produced during the cooling process. You’ll have to empty and clean these tanks regularly to prevent them from leaking and overflowing in your room.
Types of Portable Air Conditioners
There are three different types of portable air conditioners, which are as follows:
Monoblock ACs
Monoblock portable air conditioners can further be categorized into two types:
Single-Hose Monoblock AC
This product is the simplest and quickest to use. The entire air conditioning mechanism is designed in a single unit that’s mounted on wheels. This auxiliary air conditioning system can easily be moved from one room to another, but it requires drainage.
Dual-Hose Monoblock AC
As the name suggests, these units feature two hoses. One hose collects outdoor air, while the other releases hot air. Basically, this unit freshens ambient air without bringing hot air from the outside and without using pressure, thus consuming less energy.
Split Portable Air Conditioners
Split portable air conditioners function exactly like monoblock units, but they’re designed with two separate components. The condensing and compression component is installed outside your home, while the portable ventilation unit is placed indoors. However, both components should be connected with a flexible hose.
The main benefit of these units is that the portable ventilation unit is incredibly lightweight and generates less noise.
Costway Portable Air Conditioner
Self-Evaporating Portable Air Conditioner
These non-drainage units are actually coolers that work by condensation. They’re not really air conditioners, but they are lightweight, affordable, and ideal for cooling small spaces. However, they produce quite a bit of noise and are ineffective in rooms measuring over 15 meters square.
How Do These Compare?
For people who have never bought a portable air conditioner before and are just starting their research, it’s important to know that there are several different types that function differently. Let’s see how they compare:
Portable Air Conditioner vs Window Unit
One of the main advantages of a portable unit is that it’s incredibly easy to install. Due to the unit’s portability and mobility, it can easily be moved from one room to another, depending on which area needs the most attention. While a window unit is fixed in one spot, a portable model can be moved from the bedroom upstairs to the study downstairs if the need arises.
Furthermore, a window unit is placed almost entirely outside of your room, which can be an advantage to people who like reduced clutter. A window AC is also more energy-efficient than a portable one, which means that it offers more cooling power per BTU.
Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner vs Single Hose
Single-hose units significantly cut down on energy bills, while dual-hose air conditioners offer greater performance and better cooling capabilities. Since the former is designed with only one hose, these appliances are usually far cheaper than the latter. Single-hose units are also less likely to offer the same additional features, like air purification and filtration.
A big advantage that dual hose units have over their single-hose counterparts is that they’re able to cool a room much more quickly. However, they are also more expensive and often consume more energy than single-hose systems.
Evaporative Coolers vs Portable Air Conditioners
Unlike portable units, evaporative coolers are not designed with an exhaust hose and can be used outdoors for year-round climate control. They’re the perfect patio heater companion and can be placed by the pool as well. Their ventless system further makes it easier to move them from room to room.
While you can use a portable air conditioner in almost any climate, an evaporative cooler's effectiveness depends greatly on the amount of humidity present in the atmosphere.
Haier HPND14XCT
How to Install a Portable Air Conditioner
Most portable units are incredibly easy to install and can be installed in 10-30 minutes. Make sure that the unit is placed on a level floor about eight to twelve inches away from obstructions, such as flowers and furniture.
Make sure you also check the user manual for the minimum clearance space required. Ideally, you should place the air conditioner near an electrical outlet and close to an outside window.
If you want to install a portable air conditioner, you can follow these steps:
1. Install the Included Adjustable Window Kit
The included window kits will work with almost all kinds of windows, including ones that slide up and down and to the side. If you have a traditional up-down window, then position the kit at the bottom and make sure that it fits the entire width of the window opening.
If the window kit's length is larger than the window opening, you’ll need to trim the kit down. However, if the kit is smaller than the opening, then you’ll have to use Plexiglass, cardboard, or plywood to fill the gap.
Once you’ve made sure that the kit is fitted properly and no sunlight or air is leaking through, close the window to secure the kit in place. The air conditioner might also come with screws that you’ll need to use to secure the kit more firmly in place.
2. Connect the Hose
You’ll need to connect the vent hose to the unit’s back. If the AC does not have a connector in place, then install the connector before attaching the hose. Take the second end of the hose and attach it to the window exhaust connector, making sure that it’s securely locked in place.
3. Plug In the AC
It’s important to remember that an AC should never be connected to an extension cord or a power strip. Make sure that you plug the unit into a properly grounded outlet, restart it, and then power it on.
To get a better understanding of how to install a portable air conditioner, check out this video below:
How to Use a Portable Air Conditioner
To help you understand how to properly use a portable air conditioner, we’ve put together some tips that will help increase the unit’s longevity, efficiency, and cooling ability. Have a look:
1. Make Sure the Exhaust Hose is Kept Straight
You’ll want to keep the number of kicks, coils, and twists in the hose that connects the kit to the AC at a minimum. Basically, you’ll need to keep the exhaust hose straight with minimal contortions.
2. Regularly Clean and Replace the Filter
You should change the filter in your AC regularly if you want to ensure efficient cooling and proper operation. This process is also essential for maintaining indoor air quality.
3. Close the Door
Portable units work best in closed rooms. Make sure that the door is closed if you’re using the air conditioner in a basement or bedroom, so excess warm air cannot enter and cool air can circulate continuously. Furthermore, it’s advisable to place the appliance in a corner where it cannot get any direct sunlight.
4. Switch Off Any Unnecessary Heat Sources
It’s better to eliminate all unnecessary heat sources. Electronic equipment and light bulbs can emit heat. Although it might not seem like a lot of heat, it still makes your air conditioner work a bit harder to keep the room cool and comfy. Thus, you can turn off lights, small kitchen appliances, computers, televisions, and other small sources of heat for more efficient cooling.
Conclusion
While a central air conditioner cannot be beaten in terms of overall power, more and more people are being attracted to the versatility, energy efficiency, and convenience offered by portable air conditioners. Hopefully, this comprehensive guide has helped you figure out which model best suits your needs!
People Also Ask
With such a wide range of models available in the market, choosing the best portable air conditioner is no easy task. To help clear away any queries you may have, we’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions regarding portable air conditioners:
Are Portable Air Conditioners Safe?
Portable air conditioners are as safe as other appliances. The only hazard is if the unit is plugged into an overused plug. Since these products use a considerable amount of electricity, they can cause a short circuit if they’re not connected to a dedicated plug.
How Much is a Portable Air Conditioner?
The price of a portable air conditioner depends on its brand and quality. The prices can significantly vary, with some models costing as low as $50, while higher-end models run into thousands of dollars.
Shinco SPF2-08C
How to Vent a Portable Air Conditioner
You can vent a portable air conditioner through a window, ceiling, wall, or door. You can also use Plexiglass to vent your AC through casement windows. If you want to vent it through a window, you can follow these steps:
- Connect the unit to the exhaust connector.
- Attach the exhaust connector to the exhaust hose.
- Connect the venting window kit adapter to the window kit.
- Install the window kit in the window opening and shut the window.
How to Vent a Portable Air Conditioner Without a Window
You can vent a portable air conditioner unit through a sliding door. There are several kits specifically designed for sliding doors, allowing users to vent the exhaust outside. They’re also incredibly easy to use and are able to accommodate almost all models.
Why is My Portable Air Conditioner Not Cooling?
If your portable air conditioner is not cooling, check the filter to see whether it’s dirty or clogged. If it is, make sure you clean it thoroughly. It’s also advisable to look for and remove any intake obstructions. Lastly, check the exhaust hose for obstructions and make sure that it’s as short as possible.
How to Clean a Portable Air Conditioner
You can clean a portable air conditioner by following these steps:
- Unplug the air conditioner.
- Dampen a soft cloth with water and clean the cabinet. Make sure you don’t use a spray cleaner or a liquid to clean the unit.
- Use a soft cloth to dry it thoroughly.
- Plug the air conditioner back in.
How Do Portable Air Conditioners Drain Water?
Simpler units are designed with built-in water reservoirs that need to be drained or emptied on a regular basis. You can easily drain your air conditioner with a hose. Meanwhile, advanced models boast built-in evaporative technology that vaporizes accumulated moisture with a hot-discharge feature.
How Long Can You Run a Portable Air Conditioner?
If used properly and serviced adequately, a portable air conditioner can last for around 10 to 15 years. Technically, you can run a portable air conditioner all day and night, but this is not a good idea as leaving it on constantly can significantly increase your electricity bill.