FAQ

You can use our helium tanks to inflate foil/mylar and latex balloons, though we recommend if you use balloons other than those supplied, you check that the product is meant to be used with helium. Also keep in mind that balloon sizes will affect the number of balloons you may be able to inflate with one tank

There are a number of factors that may affect the float time of a balloon, including using balloons other than those supplied with the helium kits, the type of balloon being used, under- or over-inflating the balloon, as well as external factors such as temperature, humidity and altitude.

Be sure to inflate your balloons to the proper size and avoid over-or under-filling. Tie a knot in the neck of your balloon for the best closure. If you’re attaching a ribbon, tie it between the knot and end of balloon for latex, and below the inflation port for foil. You can also purchase and add ULTRA HI-FLOAT® product to your latex balloons to help reduce helium seepage through latex, available at most party stores. (HI-FLOAT is not a Balloon Time product.)

Each Balloon Time tank has approximately 10-15% more capacity than what is needed to fill the indicated number of balloons when used properly. However, other factors may alter the total number of balloons inflated, such as using balloons other than those supplied in a kit or using larger balloons. Always ensure you have a good seal between the nozzle and balloon neck so no helium escapes while inflating, and tightly close the valve when storing your Medium or Jumbo Tank to prevent helium leakage.

Refer to our balloon capacity charts located on the box and the product pages for the number of standard balloons each tank can fill. Keep in mind, the amount of balloons a single tank will inflate may vary if you overfill, or if you use balloons other than those supplied, especially larger balloons.

Nope! Our tanks are designed to be portable and kept on-hand for those unexpected celebratory moments. As long as the green valve is closed tightly after use of your Medium or Jumbo Tank, you can store the tank for up to one year from date of manufacture. Check out the Recycling and Storing page for more information.

Balloon Time helium tanks are not refillable. However, they are made of steel and may be recycled if accepted in your local area. Check out our Recycling and Storing page for more information about how to properly dispose of your empty tank.

For our Medium and Jumbo Tanks, our green valves are machine tightened to ensure no helium leaks during transportation. If your green valve is too tight to open initially, we recommend using a hand towel or rubber grip to assist with turning the valve counterclockwise. You may also use a tool, such as a wrench or pliers, to assist with lightly opening your green valve until you can continue opening by hand.

For our Medium and Jumbo Tanks, let’s first check to see if the green valve is fully opened. Once you take your Medium or Jumbo Tank out of the box, the first step is to open the green valve by turning four full turns, counterclockwise, to release the helium seal. Once the green valve is open, slip your balloon over the black fill nozzle, and press down on the nozzle. You will hear a hissing sound and see your balloons begin to inflate. For help troubleshooting, please contact our Customer Care Team.

Our helium tanks can be stored in any direction. However, to prevent your tank from leaking, please store tanks at room temperature. For Medium and Jumbo tanks, ensure that the green valve is tightly closed.

Yes! Our products are offered around the world. Visit the International Products page to view products available outside of the United States and Canada. For a list of retailers, see the International Products section of the Where to Buy page.

Yes, this is normal. As you release pressure from the tank, the cylinder and helium will begin to cool down. If it is uncomfortable in any way, pause and let the tank rest before continuing to inflate balloons.

Helium is not flammable. However, please note to always store the tank in a cool, dry location away from any heat sources. The contents of the tank are under pressure and should not be exposed to direct heat.​

Yes, the helium tank is considered hazardous material because the contents are pressurized.

Please see our recycling instructions: Once all steps have been successfully completed, the product is no longer hazardous material and can be considered ready for recycling. To see if recycling options are available in your area, check our CylinderSafe database or contact your local waste authority directly.