The trick to making hearing aids cost effective hinges on just one component–the batteries. It’s one of the largest financial concerns consumers face when buying hearing aids because the costs of replacing them can add up fast.
Usually the batteries die at the worst time which is even more distressing. Even for rechargeable brands, this is a huge problem.
There are things you can do to increase the life of the batteries in hearing aids, so you don’t need to stop and replace them a few times every week. Think about these six easy ways you can make those batteries last just a little bit longer.
1. Be a Smart Hearing Aid Consumer
When you first start shopping for your hearing aids is when it all starts. Battery life depends on many factors like features on the hearing aids or brand quality. And some batteries are better than others. Some less expensive hearing devices have low quality parts that work with cheaper cell batteries. Be sure to discuss this with your hearing care specialist because you will be switching out the batteries a lot.
Consider what features you need, and make some comparisons as you shop around. You’ll find that non-wireless hearing aids have batteries that can last two times as long as the wireless models. And the bigger hearing aids have longer lasting batteries. These larger devices can potentially go for two weeks without requiring new batteries as opposed to the smaller ones which will require battery replacement every two days. Get the features you require but understand how each one impacts the power drainage of the hearing aids.
2. The Hearing Aids Need to be Stored Properly
In most cases, the manufacturer will recommend opening the battery door at night to prevent power drainage. Also, you will want to:
Keep your batteries in a cool, dry location. Battery cells are adversely affected by heat and humidity. Room temperature is okay just keep them out of the sun and away from heat sources include light bulbs.
Think about using a hearing aid dehumidifier, too. It’s one of the best ways to protect both the hearing aids and their batteries. Humidity in the air is brutal on their fragile components.
3. Take Precautions When Changing the Batteries
Be certain your hands are dry and clean. Moisture, dirt, and grease all impact battery life. Don’t forget to leave the plastic tab in place until you are ready to use the new batteries, too. In order to power on, modern 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 remove the tab but before you install them. Doing this can extend the life of the battery by days.
4. Different Battery Sources And Batteries Can be Experimented with
Quality batteries will last longer than bargain ones, obviously. Don’t just think of the brand, though, but what types of hearing aid batteries you’re using and also where you purchase them. Big box stores commonly 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 sell-by and expiration dates. You shouldn’t use them after they expire.
The easiest way to find batteries at an affordable cost is to ask your hearing care specialist.
5. Accept The Unavoidable And be Ready For it
The batteries are going to die sooner or later. It’s better if you have an idea when that will occur, 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 an idea for when you need replacements.
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. Consider the Alternatives to Batteries
One of the greatest things about modern hearing aids is that some are rechargeable. You could pay a little more for those units, but it will be worth it if you can save money on batteries. Rechargeable batteries are probably the best option if you need a lot of features like Bluetooth or wireless.
Hearing aids are a considerable investment but the batteries that make them work are too. A small amount of 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.