There are many industrial uses of helium, from welding to inspecting ships to producing TVs and smartphones — but the most well-known use of helium is filling balloons. This inert, colorless and odorless element has an extremely low density, making it chemically lighter than air and the ideal balloon gas.

However, filling balloons with helium isn’t as simple as picking up a canister and filling the balloon. Learn more about helium in party and weather balloons and where you can source the right helium below.

Learn More

Differences and Variations in Helium Purity

While helium is applicable across industries, not all helium is the same. This gas varies in purity, and it’s essential to choose the right helium grade for your specific use. This way, you won’t use a higher grade of helium than is necessary.

The grading system for helium is a scale, with each grade’s number represented in its purity percentage. For example, Grade 6 helium has a 99.9999% purity, with six total “9s” noted in the percentage, and Grade 4.6 has a 99.996% purity, with four “9s” and one “6.” These are some of the most common helium grades and applications:

Grade 6: This is the highest helium grade and is the closest to being 100% pure. It’s used in numerous high-level applications, including as a cooling agent for superconducting magnets in MRI machines and for semiconductor chip manufacturing.
Grade 5.5: With a 99.9995% purity, Grade 5.5 helium is also largely used in research-based applications. It’s an ultra-pure helium that’s ideal as a shielding gas in welding and a cooling gas in fiber optics. It can also be used for some of the same applications as Grade 6 helium, such as semiconductor processing.
Grade 5: While slightly less pure than Grades 6 and 5.5 at a 99.999% purity, Grade 5 helium is also used for specific lab research purposes, such as in weather balloons and blimps. It can also be used for gas chromatography and mass spectrometry.
Grade 4.8: Grade 4.8 has a purity of 99.998% and is commonly used in military applications, though it can also be used in certain industrial processes.
Grade 4.7: This 99.997%-purity helium is often a tracer gas for helium leak testing, such as in containers. It can also be used in pressurizing and purging and cryogenic applications. One of the most common uses of Grade 4.7 helium is in breathing gas mixtures for deep sea diving.
Grade 4: This is most well-known as balloon-grade helium, with a purity of 99.99%. It can also be used in applications like vehicle airbags, but Grade 4 helium is the top choice for filling decorative party balloons.

Contact An Expert

What Is Balloon-Grade Helium?

When choosing helium for balloons, you should select Grade 4 helium or any helium with a purity of 99.99% or lower. This is one of the most accessible helium grades on the market and provides the exact results you need. However, if you need a higher purity so you can use helium in party and weather balloons, Grade 5 gas will work fine for both uses.

Keep in mind that different types of balloon material will hold helium better than others. Since latex is porous, helium will slowly seep out of a latex balloon over time. A foil balloon can float longer because it’s nonporous and can be refilled thanks to its self-sealing valve. No matter which option you choose, always use the highest-quality balloons available for the best results.

Sourcing and Storing Helium for Balloons

Once you have your balloons ready, it’s time to purchase your helium. The good news is that 99.99% helium is a standard option available through numerous suppliers. While the helium global supply chain has a few considerable challenges, you should be able to source what you need from your chosen retailer — feel free to connect with a Meritus Gas team expert if you need help.

That said, it’s important to note that Grade 4 helium, despite its lower purity rating, isn’t always the most cost-effective choice. Since higher-purity helium varieties are liquids, they’re less expensive and more efficient to transport. Consider using Grade 5 helium if you find a notable pricing difference.

Both using and storing helium properly are essential. Although helium is nonflammable, nontoxic, odorless and tasteless, it’s still necessary to disperse it only in a well-ventilated area to limit the risk of asphyxiation. Additionally, store your helium cylinder upright in a dry, safe place and secure it to ensure it doesn’t fall over.

Find a Partner Near You

Simple Balloon Inflation Tips

Using helium to fill balloons is easy once you understand the basics. First, make sure you have all the necessary items and accessories. In addition to your helium and balloons, you’ll need a regulator and ties to secure the balloons once filled. Either a single- or double-stage regulator will work, though double-stage regulators are best at parties or events where balloons will need to be filled consistently.

Now, you have everything you need to start filling. Get started with the following steps:

Place the cylinder on a level surface in a well-ventilated space.
Remove the plug on the cylinder.
Screw in the regulator.
Turn the valve to let out the gas.
Put the opening of a balloon over the regulator’s nozzle, holding it securely.
Tilt the nozzle slightly forward to allow the helium to flow into the balloon.
Release the nozzle once the balloon is filled properly.
Remove the balloon from the nozzle.
Tie off the balloon.

When you’re finished filling the balloons, close the cylinder valve and tilt the nozzle down to relieve regulator pressure before storage. It’s also important to consider balloon disposal after your event ends. If any balloons are left over, pop them to let out the helium and dispose of them properly. Keep the balloons weighted during the party to ensure none of them float away.

Choose Meritus Gas Partners for Your Helium Needs

Whether you need 99.99% helium to fill balloons or are interested in higher-purity helium grades for other purposes, Meritus Gas Partners is your go-to source for reliable gases and supplies. We offer exceptional local service, a knowledgeable team of professionals and a reliable supplier network. We’re here to help you find the equipment and products you need to meet your business goals with helpful resources and support.

Learn more about our available balloon-grade helium today, or explore the other types of gases we supply. Then, find a Meritus Gas retail location to get in touch with your local distributor. We look forward to assisting you with your gas supply needs!