Helium FAQ's  


Here are the answers to a few frequently asked questions about helium inflatables that can help you with their use and maintenance.

 

IMPORTANT - PLEASE NOTE

Our Bargain Blimp package does not include helium gas. This must be purchased separately.

 

Q:  Where can I buy balloon helium to fill my inflatable?

 

A:  There are two main suppliers of bottled balloon helium:

 

B.O.C. :

Tel: 0800 111333   Email: custserv@boc.com  Web: www.boconline.co.uk

 

Air Products :

Tel: 0800 111333   Email: info@airproducts.co.uk  Web: www.airproducts.co.uk

 

Both of the above suppliers can offer account facilities and have a large network of bottled gas suppliers who can supply and deliver balloon gas to you.

 

 

Q: How much helium will I need?

 

A: Our standard 4m blimp or 2.5m Sphere will require approximately 7m3 of helium. We recommend you obtain at least 1.5 times this volume to allow for topping up for a three day event. More if the event/launch is longer. Costs will vary depending on the supplier or quantity but as a ball park figure you should expect to pay around £150 for 10m3 of balloon helium gas, including a months cylinder hire and delivery/collection. Your chosen bottle gas agent will confirm the exact price. Your helium blimp/sphere will need topping up daily and as a rough guide will use around £5 worth of helium per day once it is fully inflated.

 

Care and Maintenance of Helium Inflatables


When working with helium-filled inflatables, it’s important to keep several basic tips in mind. With proper care and maintenance, your helium inflatables will give you lots of use down the road.

1. Helium is a non-flammable inert gas. Although it is relatively safe in normal use it is strongly advised that helium is not inhaled as it is an exfixiant which means it can cause you to stop breathing and suffocate when inhaled. Please note that the compressed helium cylinders in which helium is stored can be very heavy and health and safety should be a priority when handling them.

2. You will need to add helium to your inflatable every three to five days. If you’re planning long-term use of your inflatable, ask your helium supplier if he/she can deliver fresh tanks as needed.

3. If using your inflatable outdoors, be sure to select a site that is clear from power lines, trees, buildings, and poles. These items can damage or destroy your inflatable, and cause possible injury to you or others in the process.

4. C.A.A. (Civil Aviation Authority) regulations state that you may not fly your balloon at a height of over 60m nor within proximity of an airport or flight path without permission, in all cases we recommend you contact the C.A.A. for advice before launching your helium inflatable.

6. If you are inflating your helium balloon in cold weather, take note. Towards the end of the inflation, when the balloon starts to take shape, finish the process very slowly to allow the cold material time to stretch without damage. We do not recommend inflation below temperatures of 5 degrees Celsius.

7. Be sure the tether line from the balloon to its anchor does not rub against any nearby objects. Severing your tether line will send your balloon sailing!

 

8. Pack your inflatable only when it is completely dry, and store it in a place free from moisture and safe from damage. This prevents mould and/or mildew from accumulating and damaging your balloon.

Do you have a care and maintenance tip for helium-filled or other inflatables?

We’d love to hear it! If we use your tip in our web site we’ll award you a £50 credit on your next inflatable purchase! Send us your tips today!

Have other questions about helium? 
Click Here!  We'll be glad to provide any information you need.

 

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