HB23-1161 in Colorado: What It Is (and What It Isn’t)

If you’ve heard about HB23-1161 and feel unsure about what it means for your home, you’re not alone. There’s been a lot of noise around “deadlines” and “bans,” and much of it is misleading.

This article is the first in our HB23-1161 series. Our goal is simple: clear up confusion, reduce unnecessary worry, and help Colorado homeowners plan with confidence.

What Is HB23-1161?

HB23-1161 is a Colorado law that updates air-quality standards for certain gas-powered equipment. It focuses on reducing nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, which contribute to ozone pollution along the Front Range.

The law does not require homeowners to replace existing systems. Instead, it mainly affects new equipment sold or leased in Colorado starting January 1, 2026.

What Equipment Does the Law Apply To?

HB23-1161 applies to:

• Gas furnaces
• Gas water heaters

The key point: The law applies to new sales and leases of equipment after January 1, 2026.

It does not apply to:

• Equipment already installed in your home
• Routine repairs or maintenance
• Equipment installed before the effective date

Why Does This Law Exist?

The purpose of HB23-1161 is to improve Colorado’s air quality, especially in areas that struggle with ozone pollution.

By reducing NOx emissions from new equipment over time, the state aims to:

• Improve public health
• Meet federal air-quality standards
• Reduce pollution without forcing immediate system replacements

Who Is This Law Really For?

HB23-1161 primarily impacts:

• Manufacturers
• Distributors
• Retailers
• HVAC and plumbing contractors

Homeowners feel the impact indirectly, through:

• Changes in equipment options
• Possible shifts in pricing
• Longer lead times as the market adjusts

What Does HB23-1161 Mean for Homeowners?

Here’s the practical takeaway:

You Can Keep Your Current System

If your furnace or water heater is working safely, you can keep using it. There is no requirement to replace existing equipment by January 1, 2026.

Future Replacements May Look Different

When it is time to replace your system, you may notice:

• Different model availability
• Updated features or technologies
• Potential pricing or installation changes
• Longer planning timelines

This is why early planning matters, especially if your system is already aging.

Quick Myth-Buster FAQ

Is this a gas ban?
No. HB23-1161 does not ban natural gas in homes.

Do I have to replace my furnace or water heater by January 1, 2026?
No. Existing equipment can stay in place.

Will I still be able to buy a furnace or water heater?
Yes. You’ll still be able to buy compliant equipment after 2026. Options may change, but heating and hot water are not going away.

Plan, Don’t Panic

The biggest impact of HB23-1161 for homeowners is planning. If your furnace or water heater is 10–15 years old, now is the right time to understand your options—before you’re forced into a rushed decision.

Schedule a system health check. We’ll assess your current equipment, talk through timelines, and help you prepare—without pressure or scare tactics.

This article is part of our HB23-1161 blog series designed to help Colorado homeowners understand what’s changing—and how to plan without pressure. Stay tuned for these posts in the upcoming weeks.

• Part 2: Your HB23-1161 Action Plan: Assess, Compare, and Plan Ahead – Practical planning before you need a replacement
• Part 3: HB23-1161: Emergency Replacement Options After 2026 – What to do if your system fails later

Read the full series to make informed, confident decisions for your home.