Product review (4 stars): Did the trick
I just got this installed today and have run a few cycles through so far. My installation required me to do some sheet metal trimming on the vent that goes through the wall (Not this Whirlpool part) in order to minimize the distance between the wall and dryer. I also had to cut several slots in the existing vent tube (Part through the wall) in order to expand around the the Whirlpool part. Instructions state to make a slit. I had to make a few in order to get it to fit which was not a big issue. The hardest part for installation for me was getting my dryer to slide on the floor while keeping both ends of the tube in while I was test fitting. I recommend test fitting everything and then marking where the upper and lower halves meet with a permanent marker and then remove the tube and tape the seam with foil tape.
The Good:
- Reduced the distance that the dryer sat out away from the wall by about two inches which makes a big difference in my small utility room.
- Having the ability to spin the round tubes separately from the box part of the periscope was VERY helpful during fitting and installation.
- I have also noted that since I don't have a long length of corrugated tubing between the dryer and external vent the ambient temperature of the room remains much cooler.
The Not So Good:
- I did have to do some sheet metal trimming and a bit of handling even when pulling the upper and lower pieces apart to swap them around. The edges are SHARP and I recommend either leather work or mechanics type of gloves while handling it.
- Both the upper and lower periscope parts are constructed with two pieces of sheet metal sandwiched together with crimps on the outside edge. When I received the box from Amazon on of the halves had separated and I had to fit it back together and re-crimp it.
- While it is not mandatory I highly recommend using foil tape to seal where the upper and lower halves fit together. It would be nice if a small strip of foil tape were included in the package with the ducting. I would think that material cost for Whirlpool would be very minimal in quantity.
So far I am happy with the purchase as I have regained a few usable inches back in my utility room and maybe keep the area cooler during the summer. I am glad I purchased this product.