The trick to keeping hearing aids economical hinges on just one component–the batteries. It is one of the largest financial concerns consumers have to deal with when buying hearing aids because the costs of replacing them can add up fast.
Usually the batteries quit at the worst time which is even more troubling. This is a big issue even for rechargeable brands.
In order to avoid the need to exchange the batteries several times each week, you can do a few things to extend their life. Think about these six straightforward ways you can make those batteries last just a little bit longer.
1. Be a Smart Hearing Aid Consumer
It starts when you are beginning to shop for your hearing aids. Battery life depends on several factors such as features of the hearing aids or quality of the brand. Not all batteries are made the same, either. Cheap components and even cheaper batteries are what defines low quality hearing aids. Make sure you discuss this with your hearing care specialist because you will be switching out the batteries constantly.
Compare the different models as you shop and, also, consider what features are essential for you. Wireless versions have batteries that die twice as fast as devices with wires. And the bigger hearing aids have longer lasting batteries. The smaller devices will need new batteries every two days, but larger models can go for around two weeks on one battery. Get the features you require but understand how each one impacts the power usage of the hearing aids.
2. The Hearing Aids Need to be Stored Properly
In most cases, the manufacturer will suggest opening the battery door at night to avoid power drainage. Also, you will want to:
A dry, cool location is where you should keep the batteries. Battery cells are adversely impacted by high temperature and humidity. The main thing is to keep them away from heat sources such as light bulbs. Room temperature is fine.
Also, a dehumidifier is a smart consideration. Both the batteries and the hearing aid itself are protected by doing this. Moisture in the air is hard on their fragile components.
3. Be Careful When You Change The Batteries
Be certain your hands are dry and clean. The quality of the battery is negatively affected by moisture, dirt, and grease. Until you are ready to use the batteries, be sure to keep the plastic tabs on. In order to power on, current hearing aid batteries mix zinc with air. But you want to be ready before that occurs.
After you remove the tab, but before you put them in, it’s smart to allow to them sit out for 5 minutes. The battery could be extended by days if you do this.
4. Different Battery Sources And Batteries Can be Experimented with
High quality batteries will last longer than bargain ones, obviously. Think about not only the brands, though, but what types of hearing aid batteries you’re using and where you buy them, as well. If you buy in quantity, you can get good batteries for less at some big box stores.
If you buy them online, especially from auction sites like eBay, be careful. Batteries have an expiration date that they need 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 Unavoidable
The batteries are going to quit sooner or later. 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 change the batteries and when they fizzle. Over time, you’ll get an idea for when you need replacements.
A diary will also assist you in figuring out which brands are right for your hearing devices and what features have the biggest effect on the battery life.
6. What Are the Alternatives to Batteries
One of the greatest things about newer hearing aids is that some are rechargeable. You may pay a little more for those units, but it will be worth it if you can save money on batteries. Rechargeable batteries are likely the best choice if you need a lot of features such as Bluetooth or wireless.
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 cash. To find out what your best option for you is, schedule an appointment with a hearing aid specialist.