Cooler for chilling unit? Can I insulate it?

[homebrewdude76]

I have one of the typical AC unit type chillers with a cheap plastic cooler. Been working for years.
Now I want to build a "better" more efficient one.

Should I get a better cooler? Or can I insulate a cheap one? Like spray foam in the lids and sides?

Or what is a cheap brand of a decent one? I thought Walmart had some Yeti type knockoffs...

 

[WayFrae]

I have seen some cooler comparison videos that showed the Yeti coolers are only about 5% better at ice retention than the Coleman Xtreme line of coolers.

I think you’d be better off either insulating the one you’ve got or buying a Coleman Xtreme

 

[homebrewdude76]

I was able to get a yeti knock-off cooler rather cheap.
Now gotta figure the best way to place access hose for wires and tubing