Refilling a helium tank is simply a matter of locating a gas company and taking the tank to the facility for a charge.
Step 1
Check the telephone directory yellow pages for industrial or commercial gas distributors, especially cylinder or bulk retailers.
Step 2
Contact party-supply retailers online or find them in the telephone directory. Most party-supply retailers rent or sell helium tanks and can refill them.
Step 3
Call a medical-supply company that specializes in oxygen tanks. Many carry other types of pressurized gas, including helium.
Step 4
Ask a florist if the shop stocks helium. Many florists deliver helium-filled balloons to accompany floral arrangements and get-well gifts, and so they keep helium on hand.
Step 5
Contact a special-events catering company. Many carry helium tanks for parties.
Step 6
Buy a pre-filled helium tank at a large retail store if all efforts to locate a helium distributor are unsuccessful. Most big-box chain stores sell disposable helium tanks with a supply of balloons for children's parties.
Tip
Do not allow children to handle a helium tank or to fill balloons from it.
Warning
Helium comes in a pressurized tank that can explode or rapidly discharge gas if overheated or handled improperly. Helium gas is a powerful asphyxiant and can quickly cut off oxygen to the brain if inhaled, causing unconsciousness and potentially death.