I Missed the Deadline—Now What?

If your system fails after 1/1/2026, you still have options

First: don’t panic. HB23-1161 is mainly about new replacement equipment being compliant after January 1, 2026—not about fining homeowners or forcing instant upgrades. The key is moving quickly through the right steps. 

Reassurance: what the rule actually changes in a replacement scenario

If your furnace or water heater fails after 2026, the main difference is:

• your replacement choices may be more limited to models that meet updated emissions requirements
• availability and lead times may vary more than you’re used to

Step-by-step action plan

1) Confirm failure and safety

• If you smell gas, see soot, or suspect carbon monoxide risk: treat it as urgent.
• Get a professional diagnostic so you don’t replace something unnecessarily.

2) Define your priority: speed, cost, efficiency, comfort

Different equipment paths optimize different goals. Decide what matters most today.

3) Choose a path: compliant gas vs. electrification options

• Compliant gas replacement (when you want “like-for-like” gas comfort)
• Heat pump / hybrid options (when you want efficiency and future flexibility)

4) Check constraints fast (this saves days)

A quick pre-check can prevent delays:

• venting and combustion air (gas systems)
• electrical panel capacity and available circuits (heat pump / HPWH)
• physical space (clearances and footprint)

5) Identify rebates/financing early

Some programs require:

• specific documentation
• model eligibility
• timing rules
  Getting this in motion early helps avoid missed savings.

Common misconceptions

“I can’t buy gas equipment anymore.”
Not necessarily. The key is that new equipment sold/leased after 1/1/2026 must meet the emissions standard. 

“Homeowners will be fined.”
HB23-1161 is structured around manufacturing/distribution/sales/lease compliance for new products—homeowners aren’t the primary enforcement target. 

“I’ll just buy something online and have it installed.”
That can create headaches:

• wrong sizing/fit
• warranty limitations
• compliance and permitting issues
  A proper diagnostic and matched system matters.

Get priority help and a clear plan

If you’re facing a breakdown or worried you’re cutting it close:

• Schedule same-day/priority diagnostic
• Get a replacement planning consult with options aligned to your timeline and budget

Ready to plan without stress?

Call Welzig: (720) 336-3777 or use our contact page to schedule. 

Quick reminder: This blog is general info, not legal advice