When technology quits working properly, that’s when we usually notice it most. That’s particularly true with hearing aids: Hearing aids are a crucial lifeline to the rest of the world for people who wear them not just a piece of technology.
So identifying solutions for a malfunctioning hearing aid, and finding those solutions as quickly as possible, is vital for both physiological and emotional reasons. Troubleshooting can be a difficult, risky process whether you’ve been wearing them for a week, a year, or decades. But there are some reasonably easy steps you can try to get your hearing aid working correctly again.
Before Problems Happen Take Protective Measures
Any advanced piece of technology needs upkeep, and hearing aids are no exception. Although the casing may appear simple and robust, the electronics inside can be extremely sophisticated.
Because of this you need to keep them well maintained. As you’re using your hearing aids, there are a few things you can do that will make taking care of them easier.
Keeping Your Hearing Aids Clean is a Must
Each day, a certain amount of wax is normally and naturally produced by your ears. And, to some degree, that earwax is helpful for your ears. But your hearing aids don’t do as well with it. To help improve the longevity of your device keep your hearing aids clean and clear of wax. The fact is that a built-in wax filter comes with most hearing aids that should also be cleaned periodically.
Don’t Allow Your Hearing Aids Get Wet
Electronics and moisture don’t mix. And in spite of the best protection technology can build, repeated exposure to moisture can gradually wear out the internal electronics of your hearing aids, compromising their performance.
This Means using your hearing aids in the pool or shower is a bad idea. Also, dry your hearing aids with a towel if they get wet. Don’t use a hair dryer because it can harm them.
Schedule Time With Professional Cleaners
Hearing aids are sensitive (and often expensive) technology, and as such, they need specialized cleaning practices. A specialized cleaner can better achieve certain things that you can’t, even if you’re fairly rigorous about your cleaning routines.
Every 4-6 months is the recommended time between cleanings.
Troubleshooting Complications That Are Already Happening
Preventative steps are important if your hearing aids are currently functioning properly. But if you’re having problems, if your hearing aids aren’t working properly anymore, you’re most likely more interested in some quick fixes.
Try one of the following steps if your hearing aids aren’t working correctly:
- Change the settings or switch between programs. Most hearing aids are different in this respect, so your plan of action will depend on the model you’re using.
- Check your own ears. Sound from your hearing aid might be blocked by earwax buildup.
- Replace your battery or power source, even if your batteries are rechargeable.
- Adjust the volume. There will be either a volume dial on the hearing aid or a remote you can use for this. Try to do both if you have both features with your hearing aid.
- Check for loose wiring or corrosion in the battery compartment. If you see any corrosion, you can attempt to carefully clean out, but considerable damage will have to be fixed professionally.
- Inspect your hearing aid for debris or wax accumulate. If you find any wax buildup or debris, clean them away.
- Reboot the device (turn it off and turn it back on). This will correct the issue in some cases.
- Look over your hearing aids for blemishes, cracks or other visible signs of damage. Your hearing aid may need to be fixed if you find any of this type of damage.
If none of these measures address your hearing aid troubles, it’s likely that you’ll have to have the device fixed professionally in order to bring it back to peak functional condition.
What if Nothing I Try Works?
When your hearing aids aren’t functioning properly anymore and troubleshooting has not taken care of the issue, you will likely have two options: either send the hearing aids in for repair or purchase a new pair of hearing aids. The age of your hearing aids, your personal situation, and other factors will establish which choice will work best for you.
Take the time to troubleshoot your hearing aids if they aren’t working correctly. A conversation with your hearing professional to find a solution is the next thing you should do if that doesn’t work. To find a solution schedule an appointment today.