What is the new Colorado low NOx Law?
- Colorado has passed a rule that, starting in 2026, most new gas furnaces and gas water heaters sold and installed in the state must be “ultra‑low NOx,” meaning they produce much less air pollution than older models.
- The law applies mainly to new equipment being sold or installed; it does not force people to remove or stop using existing furnaces or water heaters.
How does low NOx affects Colorado Homeowners?
- If someone already has a working gas furnace or gas water heater, they can keep using it; the change really shows up when that unit eventually needs to be replaced.
- Once the law is in effect and old‑style models are gone, a homeowner who still wants gas will have to choose one of the cleaner, ultra‑low‑NOx models, or consider switching to electric options like heat pumps or electric/heat‑pump water heaters.
What kind of equipment is available from now on with ultra‑low NOx?
Between now and the full start of the rules, stores and contractors will be selling both:
- Remaining “standard” gas furnaces and gas water heaters (older NOx levels)
- Newer ultra‑low‑NOx gas units and electric options
After the rules kick in and old inventory is used up, the realistic choices become:
- Ultra‑low‑NOx gas furnaces and gas water heaters
- Electric equipment, especially heat pumps and heat‑pump water heaters, which many new building codes favor.
What does the new low NOx Law in Colorado means for future prices?
- The newer ultra‑low‑NOx gas units generally cost more to make and install than today’s simplest gas models, so average prices for new gas equipment are expected to go up over time.
- At the same time, more people will be looking at electric options; these can also have higher upfront costs but may get rebates and can cost less to run, depending on energy prices, the home, and any electrical upgrades needed.
What should Colorado homeowners do for the ultra‑low NOx Law?
- If a homeowner has an older gas furnace or water heater that is near the end of its life, they may save money by replacing it before the rules fully kick in, while standard‑type gas units are still in stock.
- Homeowners should:
- Ask contractors specifically about “remaining inventory” vs. new ultra‑low‑NOx models and get prices for both.
- Get 2–3 quotes that compare: a last‑generation gas unit, a new ultra‑low‑NOx gas unit, and an electric/heat‑pump option, including any available rebates.
If you still have questions, give our team a call or drop us an email and we’ll do our best to help you make the best decision for water and air heating equipment.
Call the Home and Commercial experts at:
(303) 828-9444
