Helium Balloon Tanks - Buying Tips


by Jonathan Hostetler - Date: 2010-08-06 - Word Count: 528 Share This!

Helium balloons are a great way to memorably and powerfully punctuate an event. For those unfamiliar with the process, however, acquiring a helium balloon tank and the other equipment necessary might seem like a daunting task. In particular, determining the characteristics of the tank you will need, as well as where to find it, is perhaps the most important step in the process.

The first decision to make is whether or not you need a tank permanently or temporarily. If your goal is to provide regular events where helium balloons will be featured, then a permanent refillable tank is probably the most economical choice over time. If your needs are only temporary, however, then many companies will rent filled tanks for short-term use. Some will even handle delivery and pickup.

Buying a tank of your own brings along with it several important considerations. First, you'll need more than just a tank. Inflaters are necessary to channel the helium into your balloons. Safety stands or mounts help secure the tank such that it isn't damaged or doesn't present safety risks to those using it.

Also, you'll need periodic refills of helium. Just how often this is necessary depends on the size of your tank. Helium refills are purchased at specialized refilling stations, and require that your tank be capable of safely accepting a refill.

One mechanism by which this is accomplished is through hydrotesting. Required by law to be performed every five years, you must be able to prove that your tank is hydrotested before it can be refilled. This ensures that the tank metal can survive the high pressures imposed upon it by the stored helium.

You'll also need to decide whether or not your helium balloon tank will be stationary or portable. Stationary tanks are larger, requiring fewer refills between uses and are usually mounted more securely, so are less prone to accidental damage.

Portable tanks are easier to move. However, transporting helium requires that certain cautions be taken and that some laws be followed. In general, you must carry the invoice for your tank with you in the front glove compartment, clearly indicating its contents. There are also limits on how much helium can be legally transported in tanks.

Furthermore, care must be taken not to store helium balloon tanks under high heat or other dangerous conditions. As such, while portable tanks may seem more convenient, the excess stipulations are worth considering before determining whether or not a portable tank is right for you.

Storage is another consideration when purchasing a tank. In general, tanks should be stored in well-ventilated areas where the temperature will not exceed 120 degrees. Storage locations should be dry, out of the elements, and should provide features to secure the tank such that it won't injure anyone or suffer damage.

Helium balloons are a great and creative addition to many events. Fortunately, filled tanks are easily rented, providing everything needed to memorably use balloons in your event. If you plan on using them regularly, however, and are up to the challenges associated with owning and maintaining your own tank, then buying is also a great option, and many companies and resources are available to educate you on the process.

Related Tags: helium balloon tanks, helium tanks for balloons, helium balloon inflators

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