There is one component that is the key to keeping hearing aids economical and that is the batteries. The cost of replacing them adds up quickly and that makes it one of the largest financial considerations when buying hearing aids.
Usually the batteries die at the worst time which is even more troubling. This is a huge problem 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 every week. Make the batteries last just a little bit longer by thinking about these 6 simple ideas.
1. Be a Smart Hearing Aid Consumer
When you first start shopping for your hearing aids is when it all begins. Brand quality and hearing aid features are a couple of the factors which dictate battery life. Not all batteries are made the same, either. Cheap components and even cheaper batteries are what defines low quality hearing aids. You’ll be switching those batteries out all the time, so be certain to talk it over 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 have batteries that can last twice as long as the wireless models. The larger the hearing aid, the longer the battery will last, too. These larger devices can possibly go for a couple of weeks without needing new batteries as opposed to the smaller ones which will need battery replacement every couple of days. Get the features you require but understand how each one affects the power drainage of the hearing aids.
2. Take the Time to Store the Hearing Aids Properly
In most situations, 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 keep the batteries. Humidity and high temperatures will affect battery cells. The most important thing is to keep them away from heat sources like light bulbs. Room temperature is okay.
Also, a dehumidifier is a smart consideration. Both the batteries and the hearing aid itself are protected by doing this. Humidity in the air is brutal on their delicate components.
3. Be Careful When You Change The Batteries
Begin with clean, dry hands. The quality of the battery is adversely affected by moisture, dirt, and grease. 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.
It is good to let them sit out for five minutes after you pull the tab but before you put them in. The battery could be prolonged by days if you do this.
4. Play Around With Different Batteries and Battery Sources
Needless to say, bargain batteries will die faster than high quality ones. Don’t just think of 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.
If you buy them online, particularly from auction sites like eBay, use caution. Batteries have sell-by and expiration dates. You shouldn’t use them after they expire.
Ask your hearing specialist for advice on where to get batteries at affordable prices.
5. Be Ready For The Unavoidable
The batteries are going to die sooner or later. It’s beneficial if you have an idea when that will happen, so you don’t find yourself in a pinch. Make a schedule of when you replace the batteries and when they fizzle. Over time, you’ll get a feel for when you need replacements.
In order to help you figure out what features have the biggest effect on the battery and which brand batteries are best for your device, keep a diary.
6. What Are the Alternatives to Batteries
One of the greatest things about modern hearing aids is that some are rechargeable. If you can save money on batteries, it will be worth paying a little more initially. Rechargeable batteries are probably the best option if you need a lot of features such as Bluetooth or wireless.
Hearing aids are a significant investment but so are the batteries that you need to make them work. A little due diligence goes a long way to lengthening the life of those batteries and saving you money. To find out what your best option for you is, schedule an appointment with a hearing aid specialist.