Building a ice chest

[George H260]

This is really a small boat question but maybe others have had experience with the problem of not enough space for perishables and drinks. My H260 only has a portable ice chest in the galley. It is not large enough for more than a days food/drinks, so my wife hauls aboard several more coolers that are always underfoot and always seem to be sliding around at the worst time. The starboard cabin lazerette below the current cooler seems to be an ideal place to turn into an insulated ice chest. Three 19qt rubbermaid containers will just fit in this space. I plan on lining the area with 3mil plastic, and foaming the containers in place. I'll also insulate the uderside of the lid. My question: 1. How much insulation is needed? I can get 2" or more around most parts of the containers.2. I plan on using the spray insulation in a can - is there a better product?3. Will a reflective surface such as aluminum foil or a space blanket help the insulation properties of the foam?4. Should the reflective surface go on the outside of the foam or around the containers?BYW this foam stuff is sticky, messy crap - but I've found that non-stick cooking spray or 10WD40 prevents it from adhering to any surface.

 

[Fred Ficarra]

Try rparts.com

They can answer a lot of stuff. They also sell custom made vacuum panels. Very high R value. As far as if 2" is enough; how much do you have NOW?

 

[Reudi Ross]

I have the same issue

with my 260. Nothing worse than warm beer. I am interested in the outcome of your project. As far as reflective coatings, they reflect radiant heat, not cold. Cold is simply the absence of heat. If you use a reflective coating, use it on the outside. As far as the issue of other coolers, I use a large 110 quart igloo and bungee it down between the cabin settees and to the compression post. But you are right, it's in the way.

 

[Kevin]

R values

George, you may get some responses to some experts on this issue, but, failing that, I would suggest that you look into the R values for the spray foam that you are considering and some other materials, such as the foam boards (with backing) that are used in homes for insulation of the walls. I have no idea what kind of R values that that spray foam has, but the other foam insulation that I am talking about is specifically designed to have high R value. Good luck with your project.