How Many Balloons Can A Helium Tank Fill? Explained

Last Updated on July 21, 2024 by Kimberlee Johnson

The sight of **bright, colorful balloons** rising into the blue sky always **amazes** me; their cheerful look **sparks joy**.

So naturally, when the opportunity arose to test the limits of a helium tank, I couldn’t resist.

Armed with my curious mind and a few dozen balloons, I got some balloons and started my experiment. Let’s find out how many balloons can a helium tank fill.

How Many Balloons Can You Fill With A Helium Tank?

Most helium tanks can fill anywhere from 30 to 50 balloons [1], depending on the size and type of the balloons. 

Using smaller 9-inch latex balloons, you can fill about 30 with a standard helium tank. 

Meanwhile, if you use larger 11-inch latex balloons, you can usually fill about 16 with a standard helium tank. 

Plus, if you’re using 18-inch mylar balloons, the helium tank will be enough to inflate up to ten of them.

Another factor to consider when filling balloons with helium is the amount of time it takes to fill the balloons. 

So, if you use a standard helium tank, latex balloons fill up for approximately five to seven hours.  

Find out how many balloons you need for a balloon arch here.

How Many Balloons Can You Fill With A 9.5 Helium Tank?

A 9.5 helium tank can fill up around 30 balloons, depending on the size of the balloons. 

The tank is perfect for small to medium-sized parties, as it can easily fill enough balloons to create a festive atmosphere. 

But if you’re throwing a large party, a larger tank is needed to fill more balloons. When filling the balloons, it is important to pay attention to the size and type of balloons being used. 

For instance, latex balloons are much easier to fill than mylar balloons, which require more helium. 

“Each firm held its rope; one by one, they realized that no matter how strongly they pulled, the balloon would eventually lift them off their feet.”

– Michael Lewis, American Author

Additionally, larger balloons will take up more helium, meaning fewer balloons can be filled with the same amount of helium.

When using a 9.5 helium tank, it is important to have a plan in place, as it is possible to overfill balloons and cause them to pop. 

To avoid this, it is recommended to use a helium regulator to measure the amount of helium being released accurately. 

But how can you blow up a foil balloon using helium?

How Many Balloons Can Be Filled With 60 Cubic Feet Of Helium Tank?

Assuming that the helium tank is filled with 60 cubic feet of helium and that the balloons are 9-inch latex balloons. 

So, it is estimated that approximately 200 balloons can be filled with the helium tank since a tank of 60 cubic feet of helium is enough to fill up to 3.3 balloons per cubic foot. 

But the number of balloons that can be filled with the tank can also vary depending on the atmospheric pressure. 

Once a balloon is filled, the helium will slowly leak out over time, and the balloon will eventually deflate. 

That’s why you must ensure the helium tank is full to fill all the balloons.

But how long do Party City’s foil helium balloons last?

How Many Cubic Feet Of Helium Tank Can Fill 100 Balloons?

Generally, a 9″ latex balloon will require approximately 25 to 27 cubic feet of helium [2] to fill 100 balloons. 

If you use larger balloons, such as 10″ latex balloons, the amount of helium needed will be higher. 

And if you plan to have a big celebration with many balloons, buy a helium tank with larger amounts of helium, such as a 50-cubic-foot tank. 

“The capacity of a helium tank may be measured in liters, but its true value lies in the joy it brings, as it transforms empty spaces into a spectacle of floating balloons.”

Howkapow Gift Site

It will ensure you have enough helium to fill your balloons without buying multiple tanks. 

And not only that, you could save money compared to buying individual helium tanks, and you’ll have the convenience of refilling the balloons as needed. 

Thus, helium tanks have a limited capacity, so you may need to rent multiple tanks depending on your needs. 

Read: 8 Basic Steps To Stuff A Balloon Without A Machine

Is Buying A Helium Tank For Balloons Less Expensive?

Buying a helium tank for balloons is often less expensive than purchasing pre-filled balloons. 

You can produce a much larger balloon when you purchase a tank. Plus, you have greater control over the number and size of balloons, thus reducing each balloon’s cost. 

Buying helium tanks can benefit larger events and occasions, such as birthdays, as the cost savings from buying a tank can be significant. 

Additionally, using a helium tank can be more convenient, as it allows for the balloons to be filled on-site rather than having to be transported pre-filled.

But how much does Party City charge to blow up balloons?

FAQs

Key Takeaways

Since we’ve answered your questions, you should now have a good idea of what to do if you’re planning a party that includes many balloons. 

Indeed, a helium tank can fill a variety of sizes and shapes of balloons, from small latex to large foil ones. 

But remember that the exact number of balloons you can fill will depend on the size of the tank, the size and type of the balloon, and the pressure of the helium. 

And note that overfilling balloons can cause them to burst, so follow instructions carefully and fill them to the right level.

References: 

1. https://phys.org/news/2013-06-internet-balloons-benefit-small-business.html

2. https://www.healthline.com/health/inhaling-helium