If you’ve recently heard about Colorado’s new furnace law (officially known as House Bill 23-1161), you might be wondering if it affects you, your current system, or your future upgrade plans. The good news? There’s no need to panic. But there is a reason to stay informed.
At R Buck Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical, we’ve been helping Pueblo and CO homeowners at large make smart decisions about their heating systems for over 15 years.
Let’s walk through what the law covers, what it doesn’t, and what homeowners like you should keep in mind.
So, What Is House Bill 23-1161?
In simple terms, Colorado’s House Bill 23-1161 introduces new emissions standards for gas-fired central furnaces and water heaters. Starting January 1, 2026, any new units sold or leased in Colorado must meet ultra-low NOₓ (nitrogen oxide) emissions limits.
This doesn’t mean gas systems are banned. It simply raises the bar for how clean-burning these systems must be when installed new.
What Equipment Does the Law Target?
The mandate applies specifically to:
- Fan-type gas furnaces
- Gas water heaters (under 2 million BTU/hour)
If you live in Colorado and want to install a new gas furnace or water heater in 2026 or beyond, the model must meet the new low-NOₓ standards.
And here’s the key point: This applies only to new sales and leases. If you already have a functioning gas furnace or water heater, you don’t need to change anything.
Why Was the Law Passed?
Really, this law is all about promoting cleaner air. Nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) are byproducts of combustion and contribute to ozone formation and air pollution.
By tightening emissions standards for household heating equipment, the law aims to reduce smog and protect public health, something especially important in higher-elevation areas like Denver, where air quality can be more sensitive.
Who’s Actually Affected by the Law?
The law is primarily directed at:
- Manufacturers
- Suppliers
- Contractors
- Distributors
That means it’s up to the companies that make and sell HVAC equipment to comply with the rules. As a homeowner, your experience will change only when it’s time to replace your system.
What Does It Mean for Colorado Homeowners?
Because this requirement is being implemented statewide in Colorado, homeowners may begin to see shifts in furnace and water heater options well before 2026. As manufacturers adjust to meet new standards, equipment lineups and pricing in Colorado are likely to evolve.
Here’s what to consider:
- You can keep your current system: No one is forcing homeowners to switch out working units.
- If your system is older, consider planning ahead: Low-NOₓ models may become the standard in the next few years, especially if manufacturers shift their entire production lines.
- Upgrades may become more expensive: Cleaner-burning technology often means higher up-front costs, so acting early can provide more affordable options.
Furnace Mandate Myth-Busting: FAQs
Q: Is this the start of a gas appliance ban?
A: No, gas appliances aren’t being banned, just cleaner versions are being required for new installs in Colorado.
Q: Do I have to change my current furnace or water heater?
A: Absolutely not! You can continue using your existing systems if they’re still safe to use.
Q: Will I still be able to get a gas furnace after 2026?
A: Yes, gas furnaces will still be available in Colorado after January 1, 2026. However, any new unit sold or installed must meet the state’s updated ultra-low NOₓ emissions standards. I
Not Sure Where You Stand? We’re Here to Help
If your furnace is 10–15 years old, it might be a good time to look at your options, especially if you want to avoid supply issues, higher costs, or future code changes.
At R Buck, we offer:
- Free system health checks
- Upfront estimates and second opinions
- Straightforward advice about repair vs. replacement
- Flexible options for heat pumps and high-efficiency furnaces
Call (719) 224-2800 or schedule online to book your service today.