Which foam for DIY coolbox conversion?

Razorfish

Razorfish

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I would like to convert one of my under bunk lockers to a coolbox - I already use it as such as I find the immersed hull keeps things cool but wish to enhance this effect by adding some insulation.

Given the curve of the hull I would like to source some suitable foam insulation...can anyone point me in the right direction?

I am sure that some of the forumites have done something similar.

Cheers!
 
Leave it as it is

I was going to do this (one day) years ago. In the interim, I just stacked the cans and bottles in the locker (below water level). We found the contents were very cool in any event.

Logic says that unless you are going to add some ice or means of cooling, the temperature in the box will only be kept at temperature of cans newly placed there.

Put some polystyrene (we don't bother) over the top of cans etc and leave well alone - they stay plenty cool enough.

Have plans for making a free-standing cool-box if that is any help.
 
Last edited:
Razorfish said:
I would like to convert one of my under bunk lockers to a coolbox - I already use it as such as I find the immersed hull keeps things cool but wish to enhance this effect by adding some insulation.

Given the curve of the hull I would like to source some suitable foam insulation...can anyone point me in the right direction?

I am sure that some of the forumites have done something similar.

Cheers!
Click to expand...
You could use the foil backed bubble wrap used to insulate roofs and behind radiators, available at B&Q, Wickes etc, each layer is only 3mm thick but claims the same insulating properties as 50mm polystyrene. It may improve your radar visibility too. I am lining the whole of my cabin and coachroof with it as well as my coolbox.
 
i've used that builders foam that comes in a can to replace insulation after a repair. Cut off the excess once it hardens.
 
This may be obvious but dont insulate the hull side. Also let the victuals touch the hull side, not rest on slats which just promotes insulation via an air gap. Lay packets flat against the side and stack bulky items with air gaps (juice containers) on top.

I use a couple of ice packs and wrap stuff in newspaper to prolong the coolness.
 
"Wallmate" or "Floormate" builders insulation foam. You can get 25mm, 50mm and 100mm thick sheets for around a tenner. Its very dense, and you can build a box out of it itself.
 
Make sure you leave a small gap at the bottom or fit a drain hose to allow any condensation to drain to the bilge.
 
When I built my fridge I used Celotex GA4000 Insulation Board

celotex-ga4000-insulation-board-2811-p.jpg
 
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