The key to keeping hearing aids cost effective lies in just one component–the batteries. It is one of the largest financial worries consumers face when shopping for hearing aids because the costs of replacing them can add up fast.
Usually the batteries quit at the worst time which is even more distressing. This is a big problem even for rechargeable brands.
There are 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. Think about these six simple 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 starts when you are initially shopping for your hearing aids. Quality of brand and hearing aid features are a couple of the factors which dictate battery life. And certain batteries are better than others. Some less expensive hearing products have low quality parts that work with cheaper cell batteries. You’ll be switching those batteries out a lot, so make sure to discuss this with your hearing specialist.
Compare the different models as you shop and, also, think about what features are essential for you. You’ll discover that non-wireless hearing aids come with batteries that can last twice as long as the wireless devices. And the bigger hearing aids have longer lasting batteries. These larger devices can potentially go for a couple of 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. Take the Time to Store the Hearing Aids Properly
To lessen drainage of power you will normally need to open the battery door at night. Also, you will want to:
Store your batteries in a cool, dry location. Humidity and heat will affect battery cells. The most important thing is to keep them away from heat sources such as light bulbs. Room temperature is fine.
Also, a dehumidifier is a smart idea. It’s one of the smartest ways to protect both the hearing aids and their batteries. Their delicate components are easily damaged by moisture in the air.
3. Be Careful When You Change The Batteries
Begin with clean, dry hands. Dampness, grease, and dirt all affect battery quality. Don’t forget to leave the plastic tab in place until you are ready to use the new batteries, too. The latest hearing aid batteries mix zinc with the air to power on. 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. Doing this can increase the life of the battery by days.
4. Different Battery Sources And Batteries Can be Experimented with
High quality batteries have a longer life than cheap ones, obviously. Think about not only the brands, though, but what types of hearing aid batteries you’re using and also where you purchase them. If you buy in quantity, you can get good batteries for less at some big box stores.
Use caution if you shop online, especially from an auction site like eBay. Batteries have an expiration date that they have to be sold by. After they expire, they shouldn’t be used.
The easiest way to get 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 sooner or later. It’s beneficial if you get an idea when that will happen, so you don’t end up 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 a feel for when you need replacements.
In order to help you figure out what features have the biggest effect on the battery and which brand batteries are appropriate for your device, keep a diary.
6. What Are the Alternatives to Batteries
One of the best things about modern 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. If you need a lot of features such as wireless or Bluetooth, then rechargeable batteries are probably the better choice.
The batteries that make hearing aids run can be as substantial an investment as the hearing aids themselves. A small amount of due diligence goes a long way to lengthening 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.