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 buying hearing aids.
Even more worrying, what if the batteries die at absolutely the worst moment? Even for rechargeable brands, this is a huge issue.
There are a few things you can do to increase the life of the batteries in hearing aids, so you don’t have to stop and replace them several times a week. Make the batteries last just a little bit longer by considering these 6 simple ideas.
1. If You’re Looking to Buy a Hearing Aid, be Smart About it
It starts when you are beginning to shop for your hearing aids. Quality of brand and hearing aid features are just a couple of the factors which determine battery life. And some batteries are higher quality than others. Some less expensive hearing products have low quality parts 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.
Consider what features you need, and make some comparisons as you shop around. You’ll find that non-wireless hearing aids have batteries that can last two times as long as the wireless devices. The bigger the hearing aid, the longer the battery will last, too. The smaller devices need new batteries every two days, but larger units can go for up to two weeks on one battery. Get the features you need 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 cases, 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 place. Humidity and heat will affect battery cells. Room temperature is fine just keep them out of the sun and away from heat sources include light bulbs.
Think about using a hearing aid dehumidifier, too. It’s one of the smartest ways to preserve both the hearing aids and their batteries. Moisture in the air is brutal on their fragile components.
3. Be Careful When You Change The Batteries
Start with clean, dry hands. Humidity, grease, and dirt all impact battery life. Until you are ready to use the batteries, be certain to keep the plastic tabs on. In order to power on, modern hearing aid batteries mix zinc with air. You don’t want that to happen before you are ready.
It is good to let them sit out for five minutes after you remove the tab but before you install them. Doing this can increase the life of the battery by days.
4. Play Around With Different Batteries and Battery Sources
It goes without saying, bargain batteries will wear out faster than quality ones. Consider not only the brands, though, but what types of hearing aid batteries you’re using and where you purchase them, too. If you buy in bulk, you can get good batteries for less at some big box stores.
Use caution if you buy them online, especially 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.
Consult your hearing specialist for advice on where to find batteries at affordable prices.
5. Accept The Inevitable And be Ready For it
Sooner or later, the batteries are going to die. It’s beneficial if you have an idea when that will occur, so you don’t find yourself in a difficult situation. To keep track of when the batteries fizzle and need to be changed, make a schedule. Over time, you’ll get an idea 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 have the biggest effect on the battery life.
6. Consider the Alternatives to Batteries
One of the best things about newer hearing aids is that some are rechargeable. You may pay slightly more for those units, but it will be worth it if you can save money on batteries. If you need a lot of features like wireless or Bluetooth, then rechargeable batteries are likely the better choice.
Hearing aids are a significant investment but the batteries that make them work are too. Extending the life of your batteries and saving cash begins with a little due diligence. To find out what your best option for you is, schedule an appointment with a hearing aid specialist.