The trick to keeping hearing aids economical hinges on just one component–the batteries. The cost of exchanging them adds up fast and that makes it one of the largest financial considerations when buying hearing aids.
Usually the batteries quit at the worst time which is even more distressing. Even for rechargeable brands, this is a huge issue.
There are some things you can do to extend the life of the batteries in hearing aids, so you don’t need to stop and replace them a few times every week. Think about these six straightforward ways you can make those batteries last just a little bit longer.
1. Be a Smart Hearing Aid Consumer
It starts when you are beginning to shop for your hearing aids. Battery life depends on many factors including features of the hearing aids or quality of the brand. 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 make sure to discuss this with your hearing specialist.
Think about what features you need, and make some comparisons as you shop around. You’ll discover that non-wireless hearing aids come with batteries that can last twice as long as the wireless models. And the bigger hearing aids have longer lasting batteries. These larger devices can possibly go for two weeks without requiring new batteries as opposed to the smaller ones which will need battery replacement every two days. Recognize how all of the features of a hearing aid impact the power expenditure and then select the ones you require.
2. The Hearing Aids Need to be Stored Properly
In most instances, the manufacturer will recommend opening the battery door at night to lessen power drainage. Also, you will want to:
A dry, cool location is where you should store the batteries. Batteries are adversely affected by high temperature and moisture. The main thing is to keep them away from heat sources such as light bulbs. Room temperature is fine.
Consider using a hearing aid dehumidifier, too. It’s one of the best ways to preserve both the hearing aids and their batteries. Their fragile components are easily destroyed by moisture in the air.
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3. Take Precautions When Changing the Batteries
Make sure your hands are dry and clean. The life of the battery is adversely impacted by moisture, grease, and germs. Don’t forget to leave the plastic tab on until it’s time to use the new batteries, too. Modern hearing aid batteries mix zinc with the air to power up. You don’t need that to happen before you are ready.
After you remove the tab, but before you put them in, 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
Quality batteries will last longer than cheap ones, obviously. Don’t just think about the brand, though, but what types of hearing aid batteries you’re using and also where you buy them. If you buy in quantity, you can get good batteries for less at some big box stores.
Use caution if you buy them online, particularly from an auction site like eBay. Batteries have an expiration date that they have to be sold by. Once they expire, they shouldn’t be used.
The easiest way to find batteries at an affordable price is to ask your hearing care specialist.
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5. Be Ready For The Unavoidable
Eventually, the batteries are going to die. It’s better if you have an idea when that will occur, so you don’t find yourself in a pinch. Make a schedule of when you replace the batteries and when they fizzle. You’ll get an idea of when you need to replace them over time.
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. Consider 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 likely the best option if you need a lot of features like Bluetooth or wireless.
The batteries that make hearing aids run can be as substantial an investment as the hearing aids themselves. A little due diligence goes a long way to lengthening the life of those batteries and saving you cash. Contact a hearing aid retailer for some information on what option is best for you.