The key to keeping hearing aids economical lies in just one component–the batteries. The cost of replacing them adds up quickly and that makes it one of the biggest financial issues when shopping for hearing aids.
Even more worrying, what if the batteries quit at absolutely the worst moment? This is a huge issue even for rechargeable brands.
There are a few 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. Consider these six simple ways you can make those batteries last just a little bit longer.
1. Be a Smart Hearing Aid Consumer
It begins when you are initially shopping for your hearing aids. Brand quality and hearing aid features are a couple of the factors which determine battery life. Not every battery is made the same, either. Cheap components and even cheaper batteries are what defines low quality hearing aids. You’ll be switching those batteries out a lot, so make sure to talk it over with your hearing specialist.
Think about what features you need, and make some comparisons as you look around. You’ll find that non-wireless hearing aids come with batteries that can last two times as long as the wireless models. The larger the hearing aid, the longer the battery life, too. The smaller devices will need new batteries every two days, but larger units can go for around two weeks on one battery. Get the features you need but understand how each one impacts the power drainage of the hearing aids.
2. Take the Time to Store the Hearing Aids Properly
In most instances, the manufacturer will recommend opening the battery door at night to lessen power drainage. Also, you will want to:
Store your batteries in a cool, dry location. Humidity and high temperatures will affect battery cells. The main thing is to keep them away from heat sources like light bulbs. Room temperature is fine.
Think about using a hearing aid dehumidifier, too. It’s one of the best ways to protect both the hearing aids and their batteries. Their fragile components are easily damaged by moisture in the air.
3. Take Precautions When Changing the Batteries
Start with clean, dry hands. The life of the battery is negatively impacted by humidity, grease, and germs. Until you are ready to use the batteries, be sure to keep the plastic tabs on. In order to power on, modern hearing aid batteries mix zinc with air. But you want to be ready before that occurs.
It is good to let them sit out for five minutes after you pull the tab but before you put them in. Doing this can increase the life of the battery by days.
4. Different Battery Sources And Batteries Can be Experimented with
It goes without saying, cheap batteries will die faster than high quality ones. Consider not only the brands, though, but what types of hearing aid batteries you’re using and where you purchase them, as well. Big box stores might sell quality batteries for less per unit if you buy in quantity.
Be careful if you buy them online, especially from an auction site like eBay. Batteries have sell-by and expiration dates. Once they expire, they shouldn’t be used.
The best way to get batteries at an affordable cost is to ask your hearing care specialist.
5. Be Ready For The Unavoidable
Eventually, the batteries are going to die. It’s beneficial if you get an idea when that will happen, so you don’t end up in a difficult situation. To keep track of when the batteries fizzle and need to be replaced, make a schedule. Over time, you’ll get a feel for when you need replacements.
A diary will also assist you in figuring out which brands are best for your hearing devices and what features most affect the battery life.
6. What Are the Alternatives to Batteries
Some current day hearing aids are rechargeable and that is one of the best features. If you can save money on batteries, it will be worth paying a little more up front. Rechargeable batteries are probably the best option if you need a lot of features such as Bluetooth or wireless.
The batteries that make hearing aids work can be as substantial an investment as the hearing aids are. Extending the life of your batteries and saving money begins with some due diligence. To find out what your best option for you is, schedule an appointment with a hearing aid specialist.