By now, you may have heard about Colorado’s upcoming furnace and water heater mandate, officially known as House Bill 23-1161. Starting January 1, 2026, any new gas-fired furnace or water heater sold or leased in Colorado must meet ultra-low NOₓ (nitrogen oxide) emissions standards.
At Absolute Plumbing, Electrical, Heating & Air, we want you to feel informed and empowered, not overwhelmed. Whether your current system is running strong or showing signs of wear, now is the time to take stock and make a smart plan for your home’s future.
Here’s a clear guide to help you assess, decide, and move forward confidently.
Step 1: How to Assess Your Furnace or Water Heater
Before you make any major decisions, it’s helpful to know where your equipment stands. Use this quick checklist to determine whether a professional inspection might be your next best move:
- Is your system 10–15+ years old?
- Do you notice frequent breakdowns or inconsistent heating?
- Have your utility bills spiked lately without explanation?
- Do you hear unusual noises like banging, rattling, or grinding?
- Is your equipment no longer under warranty?
If you answered “yes” to two or more, scheduling a system check now could help you avoid last-minute stress or emergency replacements when 2026 rolls around.
At Absolute, we offer thorough inspections and clear, no-pressure estimates so you can make informed choices.
Step 2: Should You Replace Now or Wait?
Deciding whether to replace your furnace or water heater now or hold off until later depends on several key factors.
If your system is 15 years or older, the risk of sudden failure is higher, especially during peak heating season. Frequent breakdowns can also become more costly over time, making a proactive upgrade a smarter long-term investment.
Older units typically operate less efficiently, which can lead to higher energy bills each month. Replacing with a high-efficiency or low-NOₓ model now can help reduce those costs and improve your home’s comfort, especially if you’re already dealing with uneven heating or noisy operation.
Your home timeline matters, too. If you plan to stay put for the next several years, upgrading now ensures reliable performance and improved energy efficiency for the long haul. If you’re preparing to sell or move soon, you might choose to wait, so just know that buyers may ask about the system’s age and future compliance with new laws.
And finally, supply chain and inventory could become an issue. As we get closer to the 2026 deadline, compliant models may become harder to find and more expensive. Acting now gives you a wider range of options and more flexibility when scheduling your installation.
Bottom line: If your system is nearing the end of its life, replacing it before the rush puts you in control of your comfort, your costs, and your choices.
Step 3: Know Your Options (Gas or Electric)
Colorado’s 2026 mandate doesn’t mean you can’t install a gas furnace or water heater; it just means the unit must meet the ultra-low NOₓ emissions standard.
Here are the main options:
Compliant Gas Models
Manufacturers are already developing ultra-low NOₓ gas furnaces and water heaters. These provide the same comfort you’re used to, but with cleaner emissions and potentially higher up-front costs.
Heat Pump Water Heaters
These electric models are energy-efficient and eligible for rebates and tax credits. They’re especially great for homes with moderate water usage or high utility costs.
Heat Pumps for Heating & Cooling
A heat pump can replace both your furnace and AC in one system. Some homeowners even opt for dual-fuel systems, pairing a gas furnace with a heat pump for year-round flexibility and efficiency.
Need help deciding? Our expert team at Absolute will walk you through what’s best for your home layout, budget, and long-term goals.
Step 4: Why Scheduling Early Matters
You don’t want to be stuck without heat in the middle of a Colorado winter, or competing for limited appointments as the 2026 deadline nears.
By acting early, you can:
- Lock in the widest selection of systems
- Take advantage of current prices before they rise
- Avoid seasonal labor delays or last-minute shortages
- Get more time to compare and budget
We’re already helping Denver-area homeowners plan ahead and book “2026-ready” replacement quotes today.
Step 5: What About Affordability?
We know this transition may feel financially daunting, which is why we’re committed to making it easier:
Rebates & Incentives
Ask us about utility rebates for heat pump systems and state-level energy incentives available to Colorado homeowners.
Federal Tax Credits
Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, you may be eligible for up to $2,000 in federal tax credits when upgrading to qualifying high-efficiency or heat pump systems.
Flexible Financing
We offer 0% APR for 60 months on select systems, plus seasonal promotions and flexible payment plans to help you spread out costs without sacrificing quality.
Current Absolute Offers to Take Advantage Of
Now’s a great time to explore upgrades with these limited-time offers:
- $1,200 Off Full System Install
- $500 Off New Furnace or AC
- $50 Off Any Repair
- 0% APR Financing for 60 Months on Select Systems
All backed by our:
- Certified technicians
- Fully stocked trucks
- Satisfaction guarantee
Don’t Wait Until You’re Out of Options
At Absolute Plumbing, Electrical, Heating & Air, we’ve helped thousands of homeowners across the Denver Metro area stay safe, warm, and informed. If your furnace or water heater is aging, or if you simply want to understand your upgrade options, now’s the time to get ahead of the 2026 mandate.
Call (720) 807-5715 or schedule a system assessment online today. Ask for a free “2026-Ready Quote Comparison” and find the best-fit solution for your home.