Let me start by saying, the Armstrong Astro 230Ci is a beast when it works. The 3-speed design is a game-changer for my hydronic heating system. I could fine-tune the water circulation based on the weather, saving energy without sacrificing comfort. The cast iron body feels sturdy, and the lack of mechanical seals means one less thing to worry about.

Installation was a breeze. It dropped right into my existing plumbing, and the included gaskets were a nice touch (though some reviewers didn’t realize they were there!). The universal flange design made it compatible with my setup, and the quiet operation was a pleasant surprise—no more humming keeping me up at night.

But here’s the catch: reliability is hit or miss. Mine’s been running non-stop for months on my outdoor wood burner like a champ, but others weren’t so lucky. One reviewer’s pump died after a week—yikes, especially if it’s your only heat source! Another had leaks due to casting flaws, and some reported worn-out bearings after just two years with no repair option.

The electrical box redesign might cause headaches in tight spaces, so measure twice. And while the performance matches older models, the lack of repairability is frustrating for a ‘brand name’ product. For the price, I’d expect better longevity.

Verdict? Great when it works, but pack a backup plan (or a spare no-name pump) if reliability is critical.