New Colorado HVAC & Water Heater Standards in 2026 (No, You Don’t Have to Replace Everything)
If you’ve heard rumors about a “gas ban” or a hard deadline to replace your furnace or water heater—take a breath. Colorado’s HB23-1161 is a product standard that mostly affects what new equipment can be sold or leased in the state starting January 1, 2026.
What the law is
HB23-1161 updates emissions standards for certain appliances sold in Colorado. In plain language: after the effective date, manufacturers, distributors, and sellers must ensure specific new products meet tighter emissions limits.
What equipment it applies to
The most talked-about homeowner categories are:
- Fan-type central furnaces (typical residential gas furnaces)
- Natural gas water heaters (commonly used in many homes)
The law is focused on new products being sold/leased—not existing systems already installed in your home.
Why the law exists
The goal is to reduce smog-forming pollution (NOx), which impacts air quality—especially along the Front Range.
Who it’s for
This is mainly aimed at the product market:
- manufacturers
- distributors
- contractors/retailers
Homeowners experience the change indirectly through:
- what models are available
- lead times and backorders
- pricing and feature differences Bill Sponsor
What it means for homeowners
Here’s the practical version:
- You can typically keep your current equipment if it’s safe and working.
- When it’s time to replace, model availability may change, and planning ahead gets more important.
Quick myth-buster FAQ
Is this a gas ban?
No. It’s an emissions standard for certain new appliances sold/leased after 1/1/2026.
Do I have to replace my system by 1/1/2026?
In most cases, no. The law does not mean you must automatically replace existing equipment. It targets the sale/lease of new equipment.
Will I still be able to buy a furnace or water heater?
Yes—options should still exist, but the specific models available may shift toward compliant equipment.
Does this force me to replace my current system?
Typically no; focus is on new equipment sold/leased after 1/1/2026.)
What changes most for homeowners?
Options, lead times, planning.
What should I do if my system is aging?
Call us for an assessment and plan.
If your furnace or water heater is aging, now is a smart time to plan:
- Book a system health check / planning visit
- Get a realistic timeline for repair vs. replacement
Call Welzig: (720) 336-3777 or use our contact page to schedule.
Quick reminder: This blog is general info, not legal advice.
