A linear actuator and housing assembly may be used to increase motor performance and dissipate excess thermal energy. One embodiment relates to an actuator housing and an electric motor coupled to the actuator housing, where the electric motor is disposed within the actuator housing such that there is a close proximity between the actuator housing and the motor. A linear actuator assembly may be operably coupled to the electric motor, where the linear actuator assembly is disposed within the actuator housing and a thermally conductive material is disposed between the actuator housing and motor.