I was doing the same (up on two milk crates) but I managed to do in a couple of disks in my back so I leave it on the ground now.
Hot break you don't want! Cold break is difficult to avoid. Often not visible until the temperature has dropped right down, cold break is supposedly good for the yeast.
The whirlpool arm does nothing that a paddle can do. A rolling pin can't do what a pasta machine can do.
. What works for one person doesn't necessarily mean it works for everyone. And to say "I don't need one so you're gullible for using one" is just arrogant claptrap. I suspect whoever told you that was just trolling you. to what hoppyscotty just said. The same invalid argument could be applied to say AIO/steel units are for the gullible because I make fantastic beer in plastic tubs. 
I agree, one has to keep the HBS in business, the gullible will do that. For me a paddle, no hop spider or bags will get the same result or I would say better, as those who have to use a spider or bag and a whirlpool arm. It doesn't just work for me, it works for anyone who really applies themselves to brewing techniques.
I use a tap and dip tube. I stop as soon as any trub appears. Doesn't mean I waste what is left in the kettle. I pour into a jug, the jug goes into the fridge to settle an hour or two. Pour of into a pan and bring up to 80 C either pour into the fermenter or bottle it and use as starters, don't waste it. If you use this method there is no need for any whirlpool and avoids breaking up the hot break into smaller pieces.
Not bad, but not brilliant. Always good to be in a brew club and get some feedback on taste. Enter a few competitions see how you go.
If you were a brewer who regularly entered comps then you would have found out by now that flavour and clarity are judged simultaneously. Entering comps isn't about your preference but what the judges deem to be to style, No matter, if you are enjoying what you are brewing stick with that.
