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Furnace Mandate 2026
Important: Effective January 1, 2026
Colorado's New Low-NOₓ Furnace & Water Heater Requirements
What Colorado homeowners need to know about the upcoming changesWhat's Changing
Starting January 1, 2026
Colorado House Bill 23-1161 prohibits the sale or lease of new gas-fired central furnaces and natural-gas water heaters unless they meet ultra-low NOₓ (nitrogen oxide) emissions limits.Water Heaters
- Units ≤ 75,000 Btu/hr: max 10 ng/J NOₓ
- Units 75,000-2,000,000 Btu/hr: max 14 ng/J NOₓ
Furnaces
- New standards for fan-type central furnaces
- Ultra-low NOₓ emissions required
Why This Matters for Your Home
Cleaner Air & Health Benefits
NOₓ contributes to ozone and smog formation. This law is designed to reduce smog-forming pollution from household appliances, improving Colorado's air quality.Avoid Cost Surprises
New units may cost more due to manufacturing requirements. Acting ahead of the deadline can save money and provide more options.Future-Proof Your Home
Replace now under current rules for more equipment options and installer flexibility, rather than waiting for stricter requirements.Inventory & Availability
After the deadline, all new stock must comply. Units already in Colorado inventory before that date may still be sold, but options will be limited.What You Should Do Now
- 1.
Check Your Equipment Age & Condition
If your existing furnace or water heater is near end-of-life, consider planning now for replacement rather than waiting for a winter failure. - 2.
Ask Your Contractor Specific Questions
- Is the replacement unit compliant with the January 1, 2026 low-NOₓ rule?
- What is the NOₓ emission rating of the proposed unit?
- Are there cost differentials now versus later?
- 3.
Explore Alternatives
Consider heat pumps or electric systems. Transitioning sooner may bring rebates, reduce fuel dependence, and align with broader Colorado building-code trends. - 4.
Budget for Possible Premium
Gas furnaces may see price increases after the standard takes effect. Factor in potential higher pricing if you wait. - 5.
Schedule in Advance
Many homeowners will act ahead of the deadline. Scheduling now helps avoid seasonal delays and higher labor costs.
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