Helium Tank Cost

Last Updated on October 20, 2021
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by Certified CFA CFA Alexander Popinker

In the world of party supplies, helium tanks are a popular choice for those who want their events to have an extra special touch. A helium tank can be an affordable option for those looking to fill up their balloons. The price of a tank will depend on the brand and size of the helium tank and the place you buy it from. However, it’s usually cheaper than renting one or buying the balloons themselves.

How much does a helium tank cost?

The helium tank you buy online is likely disposable and can fill about 50 to 100 balloons. On average, the price for one disposable tank would be anywhere between $35 and $70.

For instance, one disposable helium tank created by Giant Party Store costs somewhere between $45 and $60, while one made by Worthington Cylinders retails for $40 to $65.

The Pumponator is a great alternative to helium tanks. It costs about $18 to $25, and its balloons last up to 8 hours, which is less than with the classic helium tanks.

You can buy an 8.9 cubic foot tank for $50 and a 14.9 cubic foot tank from Party City for $60.

In case you need to fill more than 100 ballons with helium, it will be better for you to rent a helium tank from a local store. The cost of renting one tank depends on the place you are renting it from and the size of the cylinder. If you need the tank for 24 to 48 hours it would cost you anywhere between $60 and $220. For 50 ballons a 20 cubic foot tank that costs around $45 to rent will be necessary, while a 125 cubic foot tank would cost you around $100  and it would be enough to inflate 350 ballons.

Helium tank details

The helium tanks often sold at the local stores are 8.9 or 14.9 cubic feet. In order to inflate 16 17-inch foil balloons, you would need a smaller tank of 8.9 cubic feet, while for 27 17-inch latex balloons you would need a 14.9 cubic foot tank.

You might also like our articles about the cost of hot air balloons, to fill a propane tank or an acetylene tank.

Be sure to read the label before you buy a kit. Some kits may include latex balloons and ribbons, while others require an additional purchase from store shelves or online retailers like Amazon.com.

Don’t worry about filling your tank when you receive it. All tanks are pre-filled and ready to use.

You can buy these tanks from stores like Costco, Party City, JoAnn Fabrics, and Target.

What are the extra costs?

If you’re thinking about renting the helium tank, then be aware that many companies require a security deposit. This can range anywhere from $110 to just over $260 and it will only be refunded when you return the tank with no issues.

For those who want their new tank delivered, there may be delivery charges. The rates range from $30 to $80 and it depends on how far away you live from the store.

If the tank is broken, most companies will require you to cover any of these damages. You may not get your deposit back if this happens.

You have to buy the latex balloons separately and the price of one would be anywhere between $1.25 and $3.5, depending on the size and shape.

Good to know

Boland Helium TankThere’s a lot of information on the label and in the instruction manual for your tank, so be sure you read them before starting.

One of the most important things when transporting a helium tank is to make sure that it’s tightly capped so you won’t have any leaks.

It is important to always use a helium tank with a strapped dolly when moving it, as most rental companies will provide one for this purpose.

Balloons are a great way to add some fun and decoration for any event. With helium, your average balloon should float for five to eight hours.

With the help of Balloon Time, you can learn how to recycle your old tank and make it into something new again as most of them are not refillable.

How can I save money?

For small events, it is highly recommended to rent the balloon machine rather than purchase one. It’s possible that you could get by with renting if your event only requires 30 or so helium-filled decorations.

You may want to consider buying latex balloons separately. For instance, many Dollar Tree stores sell them for $1.25 and if you were to buy these types of balloons, a tank won’t be necessary since the balloons come already inflated.

Try to find someone in your area that will help you fill the balloons. For example, one member on the WindsorPeak.com forum said she was able to get her balloons inflated for $0.50 to $0.75 each at a local florist. Also, the same forum recommends looking for discount coupons from Michael’s store. You may be able to save 40% on the helium tank they sell.

Alec Pow
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