There is one component that is crucial to keeping hearing aids cost effective and that’s the batteries. It is one of the largest financial challenges consumers have to deal with when buying hearing aids because the costs of replacing them can add up fast.
Usually the batteries die at the worst time which is even more troubling. Even for rechargeable brands, this can be a big problem.
There are things you can do to increase the life of the batteries in hearing aids, so you don’t get caught in awkward situation with dead hearing aids. Consider these six straightforward ways you can make those disposable batteries last just a little bit longer.
1. The Hearing Aids & Batteries Need to be Stored Properly
To prevent drainage of power you have to open the battery door when the hearing aid is not in use, for example, at night.
Hearing aids and unused batteries should be stored in a cool, dry place. Battery cells are adversely impacted by high temperature and moisture. Room temperature is fine just keep them out of the sun and away from heat sources include light bulbs. Do not keep your batteries in the fridge!
Also, a hearing aid dehumidifier is a smart consideration to help protect the hearing aids and the batteries that are currently in use Moisture in the air is one of the biggest culprits for malfunctioning hearing aids.
2. Take Precautions When Changing the Batteries
Begin with clean, dry hands. The life of the battery is adversely impacted by humidity, dirt, and grease. Be sure to leave the plastic tabs on the battery in place until it is time to use the battery. Hearing aid batteries mix zinc with the air to power on – so they start depleting as soon as the little tab is pulled off. You don’t want that to happen before you are ready. If you accidentally pull a tab off, you cannot stick it back on to save the battery. The zinc-air reaction has already started and the battery is irreversibly activated.
It is worth letting them sit out for five minutes after you remove the tab but before you put them in the hearing aids. The battery could be prolonged by a few days if you do this.
3. Buy High Quality Batteries
Quality batteries have a longer life than bargain ones, obviously. Purchase your batteries from reliable sources that have a high turn over in batteries. Always check the expiry date on the batteries before you purchase them, you don’t want to buy batteries that have been on the shelf for months or years. Expired batteries should not be used. Your hearing professional should have a fresh supply of batteries that you can use with confidence.
4. Be Ready For The Inevitable
Sooner or later, disposable batteries are going to quit. Plan ahead so you don’t find yourself in a pinch. When you remove the sticker from the back of your battery, place it on the calendar so you can keep track of how often you are changing the batteries. This can also give you some insight for when you are near the end of its life so you can put a fresh battery in before attending a social event.
5. Make Sure Your Hearing Aids Are Working Properly
Hearing aids that are not working properly, such as those with a short circuit, will drain batteries a lot quicker. Make sure you routinely schedule maintenance appointments with your hearing care professional to ensure your hearing aids are in proper working order.
6. Consider the Alternatives to Disposable Batteries
Many modern hearing aids are rechargeable and that is one of the best features – think of all the money you will save on batteries! If you need a bunch of features such as wireless or Bluetooth, then rechargeable batteries are probably the better choice, as they are more energy efficient.
Hearing aids are a considerable investment but the batteries that make them work are too. Extending the life of your batteries and saving cash starts with some due diligence. Contact a hearing aid retailer for some information on what option is best for you.