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 concerns when shopping for hearing aids.
Even more worrying, what if the batteries die at absolutely the worst moment? Even for rechargeable brands, this is a huge problem.
There are things you can do to extend the life of the batteries in hearing aids, so you don’t have to stop and replace them several times every week. Think about these six easy ways you can make those batteries last just a little bit longer.
1. If You’re Looking to Buy a Hearing Aid, be Smart About it
It begins when you are initially shopping for your hearing aids. Battery life is dependent on several factors including features on the hearing aids or quality of the brand. Not every battery is created equally, 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 discuss this with your hearing specialist.
Compare the different models as you shop and, also, think about what features are crucial for you. You’ll find that non-wireless hearing aids come with batteries that can last two times as long as the wireless models. The bigger the hearing aid, the longer the battery life, too. These larger devices can potentially go for two weeks without needing new batteries as opposed to the smaller ones which will need battery replacement every two days. Get the features you require but understand how each one affects the power usage of the hearing aids.
2. The Hearing Aids Need to be Stored Properly
In most instances, the manufacturer will suggest opening the battery door at night to prevent power drainage. Also, you will want to:
Store your batteries in a cool, dry location. Batteries are adversely impacted by heat and moisture. 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. It’s one of the smartest ways to preserve both the hearing aids and their batteries. Moisture in the air is brutal on their delicate components.
3. Be Careful When You Change The Batteries
Start with clean, dry hands. Humidity, grease, and dirt all impact battery quality. Until it’s time to use the batteries, be sure to keep the plastic tabs in place. In order to power on, current hearing aid batteries mix zinc with air. But you want to be ready before that happens.
It is good to let them sit out for five minutes after you pull the tab but before you put them in. Doing this can increase the life of the battery by days.
4. Different Battery Sources And Batteries Can be Experimented with
It goes without saying, cheap batteries will wear out faster than quality ones. Think about not just the brands, though, but what types of hearing aid batteries you’re using and where you buy them, too. Big box stores commonly sell good batteries for less per unit if you buy in bulk.
If you purchase them online, especially from auction sites such as eBay, be careful. Batteries have an expiration date that they have to be sold by. Once they expire, they shouldn’t be used.
The best way to get batteries at an affordable cost is to ask your hearing care specialist.
5. Be Ready For The Inevitable
The batteries are going to die sooner or later. If you don’t want to end up in a pinch, it’s helpful to get an idea when this will occur. 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.
A diary will also help you figure out which brands are right for your hearing devices and what features have the biggest effect on the battery life.
6. Consider the Alternatives to Batteries
Some modern day hearing aids are rechargeable and that is one of the greatest features. If you can save money on batteries, it will be worth paying a little more initially. If you need a bunch of features like wireless or Bluetooth, then rechargeable batteries are probably the best option.
Hearing aids are a significant investment but so are the batteries that you need to make them work. Extending the life of your batteries and saving cash starts with a little due diligence. To find out what your best option for you is, schedule an appointment with a hearing aid specialist.