The trick to keeping hearing aids economical hinges on just one component–the batteries. It’s one of the largest financial worries consumers have to deal with when buying hearing aids because the costs of replacing them can add up fast.
Even more worrying, what if the batteries die at absolutely the worst moment? This is a huge issue even for rechargeable brands.
There are things you can do to extend the life of the batteries in hearing aids, so you don’t have to stop and replace them a few times a week. Make the batteries last just a little bit longer by thinking about these 6 simple ideas.
1. Be a Smart Hearing Aid Consumer
It begins when you are beginning to shop for your hearing aids. Brand quality and hearing aid features are just a couple of the factors which determine battery life. Not every battery is made the same, either. Some cheaper hearing devices have low quality components that work with cheaper cell batteries. You’ll be changing those batteries out all the time, so be certain to discuss this with your hearing specialist.
Compare the different models as you shop and, also, think about what features are crucial for you. You’ll find that non-wireless hearing aids have batteries that can last twice as long as the wireless models. The bigger the hearing aid, the longer the battery life, too. The smaller devices require new batteries every two days, but larger units can go for around two weeks on one set of cells. Get the features you require but understand how each one affects the power drainage of the hearing aids.
2. The Hearing Aids Need to be Stored Properly
To lessen drainage of power you will normally have to open the battery door at night. Also, you will want to:
Store your batteries in a cool, dry place. Humidity and heat will impact battery cells. Room temperature is okay just keep them out of the sun and away from heat sources include light bulbs.
Also, a dehumidifier is a smart idea. It’s one of the smartest ways to protect both the hearing aids and their batteries. Humidity in the air is brutal on their fragile components.
3. Be Careful When You Change The Batteries
Make sure your hands are dry and clean. Humidity, dirt, and grease all affect battery quality. Don’t forget to leave the plastic tab in place until you are ready to use the new batteries, too. The latest hearing aid batteries mix zinc with the air to power up. You don’t want that to happen before you are ready.
After you remove the tab, but before you use them, it’s smart to let them sit out for 5 minutes. Doing this can extend the life of the battery by days.
4. Play Around With Different Batteries and Battery Sources
High quality batteries have a longer life than cheap ones, obviously. Don’t just think about the brand, though, but what types of hearing aid batteries you’re using and where you purchase them, too. Big box stores might sell quality batteries for less per unit if you buy in quantity.
If you buy them online, particularly from auction sites like eBay, be careful. Batteries have sell-by and expiration dates. You shouldn’t use them once they expire.
Consult your hearing specialist for advice on where to get batteries at affordable prices.
5. Be Ready For The Inevitable
The batteries are going to die eventually. It’s beneficial if you have an idea when that will happen, so you don’t find yourself in a pinch. To keep track of when the batteries fizzle and need to be changed, make a schedule. Over time, you’ll get a feel for when you need replacements.
In order to help you determine what features have the biggest effect on the battery and which brand batteries are best for your device, keep a diary.
6. Consider the Alternatives to Batteries
One of the best things about newer hearing aids is that some are rechargeable. If you can save money on batteries, it will be worth paying a little more up front. If you need a bunch of features like wireless or Bluetooth, then rechargeable batteries are likely the best choice.
Hearing aids are a considerable investment but the batteries that make them work are too. Extending the life of your batteries and saving money starts with a little due diligence. To find out what your best option for you is, schedule an appointment with a hearing aid specialist.
The content of this blog is the intellectual property of MedPB.com and is reprinted here with permission.
The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive a personalized free hearing test and hearing loss consultation, call today to set up an appointment.
