The key to keeping hearing aids economical hinges on just one component–the batteries. The cost of exchanging them adds up quickly and that makes it one of the biggest financial issues when shopping for hearing aids.
Usually the batteries die at the worst time which is even more distressing. Even for rechargeable brands, this is a huge problem.
so that you can avoid the need to replace the batteries several times each week, you can do a few things to increase their life. Consider these six straightforward ways you can make those batteries last just a little bit longer.
1. Be a Smart Hearing Aid Consumer
It begins when you are beginning to shop for your hearing aids. Battery life is dependent on several factors like features of the hearing aids or quality of the brand. And some batteries are higher quality than others. 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 talk it over with your hearing specialist.
Think about what features you need, and make some comparisons as you shop around. Wireless models come with batteries that need replacing twice as fast as models with wires. And the bigger hearing aids have longer lasting batteries. 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 two days. Understand how all of the features of a hearing aid affect the power consumption and then select the ones you require.
2. Take the Time to Store the Hearing Aids Properly
In most instances, the manufacturer will recommend opening the battery door at night to prevent power drainage. Also, you will want to:
Keep your batteries in a cool, dry place. Battery cells are adversely impacted by high temperature and moisture. Room temperature is fine just keep them out of the sun and away from heat sources include light bulbs.
Also, a dehumidifier is a smart consideration. It’s one of the best ways to preserve both the hearing aids and their batteries. Humidity in the air is brutal on their delicate components.
3. Be Careful When You Change The Batteries
Be certain your hands are dry and clean. The quality of the battery is negatively impacted by moisture, dirt, and grease. Don’t forget to keep the plastic tab in place until you are ready to use the new batteries, too. In order to power on, modern hearing aid batteries mix zinc with air. But you want to be ready before that happens.
After you pull the tab, but before you put them in, it’s smart to allow to them sit out for 5 minutes. Doing this can extend the life of the battery by days.
4. Different Battery Sources And Batteries Can be Experimented with
It goes without saying, bargain batteries will wear out faster than 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. Big box stores commonly sell quality batteries for less per unit if you buy in quantity.
If you purchase them online, especially from auction sites like eBay, use caution. Batteries have sell-by and expiration dates. You shouldn’t use them after they expire.
The easiest way to find batteries at an affordable cost is to ask your hearing care specialist.
5. Accept The Inevitable And be Ready For it
The batteries are going to quit eventually. If you don’t want to end up in a pinch, it’s better to get an idea when this will happen. To keep track of when the batteries fizzle and need to be replaced, make a schedule. Over time, you’ll get an idea for when you need replacements.
A diary will also help you figure 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. If you need a lot of features such as wireless or Bluetooth, then rechargeable batteries are probably the best choice.
Hearing aids are a considerable investment but so are the batteries that you need to make them work. 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.