Helium ballons are a popular rental item and make for great fun at carnivals, birthdays, open houses, etc. Before renting a balloon inflator, it makes sense to have an idea of how many balloons you will need at your event
Renting the proper size cylinder will ensure you have the right amount of helium for the balloons you will have at your event.
By reviewing the chart below and consulting your local rental professional, you can make the right selection, specific to the type of inflator you need along with the number and type of balloons for your event.
*Key to cylinder size
1 = 15 cu. ft.
2 = 40 cu. ft.
3 = 80 cu. ft.
4 = 100 cu. ft.
5 = 250 cu. ft.
NOTE: Overfilling ballons will result in drastic shortage of helium!!! For example, if you try to fill 9" ballons with enough helium to expand the balloon to 11" you will twice as much helium. Always match the size of the balloon with the proper amount of helium. See the chart below for the proper match.
Safety First Any type of pressurized gas is potentially hazardous. Always follow proper safety procedures with helium and any other pressurized gas. See Helium Safety Precautions for important safety information.
Balloon Size | Helium Required Per Balloon | Number of Balloons Per Cylinder Use (*Use Key Listed Above) | Fly Time Average |
| | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | |
7" | .15 cubic feet | 90 | 250 | 500 | 600 | 1500 | 3 to 4 hours |
9" | .27 cubic feet | 40 | 125 | 250 | 350 | 850 | 6 to 8 hours |
11" | .50 cubic feet | 25 | 60 | 125 | 175 | 450 | 10 to 12 hours |
14" | 1.00 cubic feet | 12 | 35 | 70 | 90 | 225 | 18 to 20 hours |
20" | 2.40 cubic feet | 5 | 15 | 30 | 40 | 95 | 2 to 3 days |
Quantities listed are approximate; numbers may fluctuate due to varying temperatures and elevation; check with your local rental center.
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