Colorado’s HB23-1161 is now in effect — and the most important thing to know is this: you are not required to replace your existing furnace or water heater. The law sets new emissions standards for equipment sold or installed in Colorado starting January 1, 2026. It does not penalize homeowners for what they already have, and it does not set a deadline for you to act. At Welzig Heating, Air, Plumbing & Electric, we want to cut through the confusion and give you the straight facts so you can make the best decision for your home and your budget. Locally-operated and serving the greater Longmont and Boulder area since 1994, we are here to guide you — not pressure you.
What Is HB23-1161?
HB23-1161 is a Colorado emissions standard that took effect January 1, 2026. It applies to new gas furnaces (fan-type) and gas water heaters being sold or installed in the state. Going forward, that new equipment must meet updated ultra-low NOx (nitrogen oxide) requirements. That is the full scope of the law. If you have heard talk of a “gas ban” or a government deadline to remove your system, those are misconceptions. Your existing equipment is not affected, and gas heating is not going away.
What Changes — and What Doesn’t
What is not changing: you can keep your current system running for as long as it performs. There is no penalty for owning older equipment, and no inspector is coming to your door. What is changing is your replacement options. Some older-style, higher-emission models are no longer available for new installations, and equipment availability may shift as the market adjusts. That makes planning your next replacement more important than it used to be — but it does not make it urgent today.
What You Should Do Now
The smartest move is simply to know where you stand. If your furnace is 12 or more years old, or your water heater is approaching the 8–12 year mark, it is worth having a technician take a look. Replacing on your own timeline — rather than in the middle of an emergency breakdown — gives you access to more equipment options, time to explore rebates and financing, and the ability to compare choices without pressure. When the time does come to replace, compliant ultra-low NOx gas furnaces are available and perform every bit as well as what you are used to. Heat pumps, dual fuel systems, and heat pump water heaters are also strong options depending on your home and priorities.
Financial Help Is Available
Replacing your system may come with meaningful savings. Colorado utility rebates, including programs through Xcel Energy, are available for high-efficiency and heat pump equipment. Federal tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act may apply to qualifying heat pumps and heat pump water heaters. Welzig also offers financing options with approved credit. We will help you understand exactly what you qualify for and factor it into your decision.
Want to learn more? Read our recent blog posts on this topic:
- Colorado HVAC & Water Heater Standards in 2026
- What Homeowners Should Do Now: Assess, Decide, Compare Options
- I Missed the Deadline — Now What?
Common Questions About Colorado’s 2026 HVAC Law
Is Colorado banning gas furnaces?
No. HB23-1161 is an emissions standard for new equipment — not a ban on gas appliances. Compliant gas furnaces are available and being installed today.
Do I have to replace my system because of this law?
No. There is no requirement for homeowners to replace existing equipment. The law applies to new equipment being sold or installed, not to what you already own.
Will I still be able to buy a gas furnace?
Yes. Compliant gas furnaces that meet the updated ultra-low NOx standard are available. Your options may look a little different than they did a few years ago, but gas heating remains a fully viable choice.
What if my system breaks down after 2026?
Repairs are still available in most cases. If a full replacement is needed, we will help you find a compliant system and get it installed quickly. We covered this scenario in detail on the blog: I Missed the Deadline — Now What?
