What is the best HVAC brand for residential AC ?

I get a kick out of charts like the one from Life story Research because sometimes it is only about brand recognition, not reliability. American Standard Companies is now Trane. On the chart, they occupy positions 1 and 9 for essentially the same product coming off the same lines and factories. It's all about advertising, nothing else really. They all make good/better/best types of products and print nice glossy brochures, some are seen more on TV or have a memorable tag line. Some best have had spectacular failures.

oil field trash2021-01-23T13:37:41Z

It has been my experience over the years that it is not the brand that is important but the HVAC contractor that you use for installation and maintenance. Everyone gives you a 5 year guarantee. Only those who offer a 10 year parts and labor guarantee either free or at a reasonable price are the best.