There is one component that is crucial to keeping hearing aids economical and that’s 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.
Even more concerning, what if the batteries die at absolutely the worst moment? This is a big issue even for rechargeable brands.
so that you can avoid the need to replace the batteries several times a week, you can do several things to extend their life. Make the batteries last just a little bit longer by thinking about these 6 simple ideas.
1. If You’re Looking to Buy a Hearing Aid, be Smart About it
When you first start shopping for your hearing aids is when it all starts. Quality of brand and hearing aid features are a couple of the factors which dictate battery life. Not all batteries are created equally, either. Some cheaper hearing devices have low quality parts that work with cheaper cell batteries. You’ll be changing those batteries out a lot, so be certain to discuss this with your hearing specialist.
Make some comparisons as you shop and, also, think about what features are crucial for you. You’ll discover that non-wireless hearing aids come with batteries that can last two times as long as the wireless devices. And the larger hearing aids have longer lasting batteries. The smaller devices will need new batteries every couple of days, but larger models can go for up to two weeks on one battery. Get the features you require but understand how each one affects the power usage of the hearing aids.
2. Take the Time to Store the Hearing Aids Properly
To prevent drainage of power you will usually need to open the battery door at night. Also, you will want to:
A dry, cool location is where you should store the batteries. Battery cells are adversely impacted by heat and humidity. Room temperature is okay just keep them out of the sun and away from heat sources include light bulbs.
Also, a dehumidifier is a smart idea. It’s one of the best ways to preserve both the hearing aids and their batteries. Their delicate components are easily destroyed by moisture in the air.
3. Take Precautions When Changing the Batteries
Make sure your hands are dry and clean. Dampness, dirt, and grease all affect battery quality. 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, current hearing aid batteries mix zinc with air. You don’t want that to happen before you are ready.
It is worth letting them sit out for five minutes after you pull the tab but before you install them. The battery could be extended by days if you do this.
4. Play Around With Different Batteries and Battery Sources
Needless to say, bargain batteries will die faster than quality ones. Think about not just the brands, though, but what types of hearing aid batteries you’re using and where you purchase them, as well. Big box stores might sell quality batteries for less per unit if you buy in quantity.
If you buy them online, particularly from auction sites such as eBay, be careful. Batteries have an expiration date that they have to be sold by. You shouldn’t use them after they expire.
Ask your hearing specialist for advice on where to find batteries at affordable prices.
5. Be Ready For The Inevitable
Sooner or later, the batteries are going to die. It’s beneficial if you get an idea when that will occur, so you don’t end up in a pinch. Keep a schedule of when you replace the batteries and when they fizzle. You’ll get an idea of when you need to change them over time.
In order to help you determine 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
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 like wireless or Bluetooth, then rechargeable batteries are probably the best choice.
The batteries that make hearing aids work can be as substantial an investment as the hearing aids are. A little due diligence goes a long way to extending 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.