(BPT) - Do you live in a smaller home? If so, you're not alone. With the current low real estate inventory and challenging housing market, compact homes like townhomes, condos and zero lot line homes are increasingly popular. In 2025, year-to-date new builds of 2- to 4-bedroom-unit projects (typically townhomes) are up 31.5% nationwide, compared to single-family new builds at just 10.1%. The appeal of compact housing is mostly due to its affordability, natural efficiency and low-maintenance living - but limited space does present challenges, especially when it comes to installing effective HVAC systems.

One solution? The slim heat pump, which is a more sustainable heating and cooling solution that combines efficient performance with space-saving design for a variety of housing situations.

Slim design with a big impact

If you haven't heard of slim heat pumps yet, you likely will soon. An ordinary heat pump is an HVAC unit that efficiently heats and cools by extracting and transferring heat from the air. A slim heat pump works in the same way, but offers a more compact design that makes it ideal for properties with limited outdoor space.

Here are a few additional benefits of choosing a slim heat pump.

• Lower costs: Due to their efficiency, heat pumps can save you hundreds of dollars on energy costs, cutting energy bills year-round. In addition, homeowners can also qualify for the High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebate Program (HEEHRP), or save up to $2,000 with an Energy Efficient Home Improvement Tax Credit (25C) federal tax credit, which is available to homeowners who install high-efficiency equipment through Dec. 31, 2025. There are also opportunities for homeowners to tap into local utility rebate programs for qualifying equipment.*
• Quieter home: For anyone living in a townhome or condo - especially when you share walls with neighbors - a common concern is that a slim heat pump may be noisy. However, the majority of modern slim heat pumps operate at a surprisingly quiet sound level. Its precision-balanced, direct-drive fan enables sound levels as low as 54 decibels, which is comparable to an electric toothbrush.
• Greater sustainability: Heat pumps operate using electricity instead of natural gas or propane, allowing them to have lower greenhouse gas (GHG) potential. If you're considering replacing your furnace, a slim heat pump is an ideal option, since it will easily integrate with your home's existing ductwork while increasing efficiency.

Find the best model

Think switching to a slim heat pump could be the right decision for your home? The new Lennox EL18KSLV Slim Heat Pump is a fantastic choice. As a variable-capacity, cold climate heat pump that's compatible with 2025 Compliant Refrigerant, this model will ensure precise comfort for homeowners, especially if you have a compact home. The EL18KSLV Heat Pump is compatible with multiple Lennox smart thermostats, allowing users to manage its settings through various smart home platforms.

The EL18KSLV Heat Pump features a narrow cabinet designed for easy installation by a professional in space-limited areas, such as zero-lot-line homes. The unit is built to help reduce energy use, and may contribute to lower utility costs throughout the year.

Make the switch

It's important to note that a slim heat pump should be installed by a licensed HVAC professional, and not on your own. For questions and to find the best solution for your home, consult your local Lennox dealer.

Learn more about slim heat pumps and other industry-leading products for your home at Lennox.com.

*Lennox Industries Inc. ("Lennox") is not a tax advisor and does not make any representation, warranty, guarantee or other assurance as to whether a particular matchup qualifies or is eligible for tax credits. Moreover, the tax laws are subject to change. As a result, Lennox highly recommends that you consult with a tax advisor regarding your qualification for the tax credits in your circumstance and verify and review the applicable tax laws and regulations.