The price list is the easy part. This is what owning one is actually like.
Cylinder rental, the forgotten cost
Most gas suppliers charge separately for the helium and for renting the cylinder it comes in, monthly or annually.
Ask about it on your first call. Some waive it for regular accounts and some will sell you a cylinder outright, which pays back if you are a long-term user. It is not a large sum; it is just an unpleasant surprise on a second invoice.
Top-off rhythm
About one percent loss a day, so nothing fails suddenly. The envelope softens and the balloon rides lower on its tether.
Use that sag as your gauge rather than a calendar, and judge it in the warm part of the day. Cold makes gas contract, so a winter morning balloon looks softer than it is and people waste helium chasing it.
The wind rule
Over 25 miles per hour in the forecast, bring it in. Not when the wind arrives.
Wind is what takes balloons. Normal use does not wear them out in any way you will notice. Weather loss is not covered by our warranty or anybody else’s, and it is entirely avoidable.
Flight height and airspace
Below 150 feet above ground the FAA is not involved. We fly at 120 feet, deliberately under that line.
Within five miles of controlled airspace, call the local tower and ask. In forty years we have never been refused. Johnny Mulder, who runs the company, holds an FAA commercial pilot certificate.
Indoors
Fifteen feet of clear ceiling for a 13-foot blimp. Net lift is about three pounds, so a sandbag or booth tie-off holds it.
At one percent loss a day, one fill covers a three-day show. Ask the venue about helium rules specifically; some halls restrict it regardless of ceiling height.
More at arizonaballoon.com.