The trick to keeping hearing aids cost effective lies in just one component–the batteries. The cost of replacing them adds up quickly and that makes it one of the biggest financial considerations when shopping for hearing aids.
Usually the batteries quit at the worst time which is even more troubling. This is a huge issue even for rechargeable brands.
In order to avoid the need to replace the batteries several times each week, you can do several things to increase their life. Make the batteries last just a little bit longer by thinking about these 6 easy ideas.
1. Be a Smart Hearing Aid Consumer
When you first start to shop for your hearing aids is when it all begins. Battery life depends on multiple factors like features of the hearing aids or brand quality. Not all batteries are created equally, either. Some cheaper hearing products have low quality components that work with cheaper cell batteries. Be sure to talk this over this with your hearing care specialist because you will be switching out the batteries constantly.
Compare the different models as you shop and, also, think about what features are essential for you. You’ll find that non-wireless hearing aids have batteries that can last two times 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 requiring new batteries as opposed to the smaller ones which will need battery replacement every couple of days. Get the features you require but understand how each one impacts the power drainage of the hearing aids.
2. Take the Time to Store the Hearing Aids Properly
In most situations, the manufacturer will suggest opening the battery door at night to prevent power drainage. Also, you will want to:
A dry, cool place is where you should keep the batteries. Humidity and heat will impact battery cells. Room temperature is fine just keep them out of the sun and away from heat sources include light bulbs.
Consider using a hearing aid dehumidifier, too. It’s one of the best ways to protect both the hearing aids and their batteries. Their fragile components are easily damaged by moisture in the air.
3. Be Careful When You Change The Batteries
Be certain your hands are dry and clean. Moisture, dirt, and grease all impact battery life. Don’t forget to keep the plastic tab on until you are ready to use the new batteries, too. Modern hearing aid batteries mix zinc with the air to power up. 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 put them in. Doing this can extend the life of the battery by days.
4. Different Battery Sources And Batteries Can be Experimented with
Needless to say, cheap batteries will wear out faster than high quality ones. Consider 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 bulk, you can get good batteries for less at some big box stores.
Be careful if you buy them online, particularly from an auction site such as eBay. Batteries have an expiration date that they need to be sold by. You shouldn’t use them once they expire.
Consult your hearing specialist for advice on where to get batteries at affordable prices.
5. Be Ready For The Unavoidable
The batteries are going to die eventually. It’s beneficial if you get an idea when that will occur, so you don’t find yourself in a difficult situation. Keep a schedule of when you replace the batteries and when they fizzle. You’ll get an idea of when you need to replace them over time.
A diary will also help you figure out which brands are right for your hearing devices and what features most affect the battery life.
6. What Are the Alternatives to Batteries
One of the best things about newer hearing aids is that some are rechargeable. You may pay slightly more for those units, but it will be worth it if you can save money on batteries. Rechargeable batteries are likely the best option if you need a lot of features such as Bluetooth or wireless.
The batteries that make hearing aids run can be as significant an investment as the hearing aids themselves. 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.