Colorado’s 2026 Water Heater Law: What Homeowners Need to Know Before Replacing a Water Heater
If you own a home in Colorado, a major change is coming that will affect water heater replacement costs and options.
Starting January 1, 2026, a new Colorado law will change which water heaters can be sold and installed statewide. While the goal is to reduce emissions, the practical impact for homeowners is simple: fewer choices and higher prices for many water heater replacements.
Homeowners in Westminster, Broomfield, and Thornton should understand how this law affects plumbing work, emergency replacements, and long-term planning before the deadline arrives.
What Is Colorado’s New Water Heater Law?
Colorado passed legislation that sets new emissions standards for water heaters, primarily impacting gas water heaters.
Beginning January 1, 2026:
New gas water heaters sold in Colorado must meet ultra-low NOx emission standards
Standard gas water heaters will no longer be manufactured for sale in the state
Only compliant models will be available once current inventory is depleted
This applies to replacement water heaters, not just new construction.
Are Gas Water Heaters Being Phased Out in Colorado?
No. Gas water heaters are still allowed.
However, the gas water heaters available after 2026 will:
Cost more
Offer fewer size and configuration options
Require stricter compliance with updated standards
For many homeowners, this means a higher cost to replace a water heater, especially during an emergency plumbing situation.
How the 2026 Law Will Impact Water Heater Replacement Costs
Once the law takes effect, replacing a water heater in Colorado is expected to become more expensive.
Homeowners can expect:
Higher upfront equipment costs
Fewer budget-friendly gas water heater options
Limited availability during emergency plumber calls
Many standard 40- and 50-gallon gas water heaters commonly installed in Westminster, Broomfield, and Thornton homes will be replaced by newer, more expensive compliant models.
Why Water Heater Prices Are Expected to Increase
There are several reasons replacement costs are expected to rise after 2026:
Stricter Manufacturing Requirements
Ultra-low NOx burners and components increase manufacturing complexity and cost.
Reduced Inventory Options
Once non-compliant units are gone, homeowners lose access to lower-cost alternatives.
Emergency Replacement Pressure
When a water heater fails unexpectedly, limited availability can lead to higher emergency plumbing costs.
What Happens If Your Water Heater Fails After January 2026?
If your water heater fails after the law takes effect:
Replacement options will be limited to compliant models
Emergency plumber visits may cost more
Some installations may require additional adjustments depending on the home
Older homes throughout the Denver metro area are especially impacted, as many already have aging water heaters nearing the end of their service life.
Should You Replace a Water Heater Before 2026?
Not every homeowner needs to replace a water heater immediately. However, it makes sense to plan ahead if:
Your water heater is 8–12 years old or older
You’ve experienced leaks, rust-colored water, or inconsistent hot water
You want to avoid future price increases
You want more flexibility in choosing a unit
Proactive planning often costs less than reacting to an emergency plumbing failure.
What Types of Water Heaters Are Affected?
Gas tank water heaters: Most impacted by the new law
Tankless gas water heaters: Some models affected
Electric and heat pump water heaters: Subject to different requirements
A licensed plumber can help determine which options make sense for your home before the law takes effect.
Why Local Plumbing Guidance Matters
Plumbing codes, home layouts, and utility setups vary across Colorado. What works in one Westminster home may not be ideal for a Broomfield or Thornton property.
Working with a local plumber who understands upcoming code changes helps homeowners:
Avoid unnecessary costs
Choose the right water heater
Plan replacements on their timeline
Big Apple Plumbing LLC works with homeowners across the Denver metro and stays current with Colorado plumbing regulations so customers aren’t caught off guard.
Final Thoughts for Colorado Homeowners
Colorado’s 2026 water heater law isn’t about creating urgency — it’s about being informed.
Knowing how the law affects plumbing, water heater replacement costs, and emergency situations allows homeowners to make smart decisions before options become limited.
If your water heater is aging, now is the time to understand your choices — not after prices rise and inventory tightens.
