When technology stops working properly, that’s when we usually notice it the most. That’s particularly true with hearing aids: To most people who use them, hearing aids are more than just a piece of technology; they’re a critical lifeline to the rest of the world.
So finding solutions for a malfunctioning hearing aid, and discovering those solutions quickly, is important for both physiological and emotional reasons. Whether you’ve been using your hearing aids for a week, a year, or decades, troubleshooting can be a high-stakes, frustrating process. But there are some fairly easy strategies you can try to get your hearing aid working properly again.
Avoiding Problems Before They Occurs
Hearing aids are no exception to the rule, like any other piece of tech, they require regular maintenance. Despite the fact that the casing may appear simple and robust, the electronics inside can be amazingly sophisticated.
Which means maintenance is a must. There are some easy ways you can make sure that your hearing aid is taken care of as you’re using them.
Keep Your Hearing Aids Clean
Each day, a certain amount of wax is normally and naturally generated by your ears. And, to a certain extent, that earwax is helpful for your ears. But it’s not so great for your hearing aids. Keeping your hearing aids clear and clean of wax buildup can help the life of the devices. The fact is that a built-in wax filter comes with most hearing aids that should also be periodically cleaned.
Keep Your Hearing Aids Dry
Electronics and moisture don’t do well together. The performance of your hearing aids can be compromised, despite the best protection technology available, if it is continuously exposed to moisture.
This means that you should not wear your hearing aids in the shower or while swimming. Also, towel dry your hearing aids if they get wet. Don’t use a hair dryer because it can harm them.
Schedule Time With Professional Cleaners
Hearing aids need specialized cleaning because they are delicate, expensive technology. A specialized cleaner can better achieve certain things that you can’t, even if you’re pretty thorough about your cleaning routines.
Every 4-6 months is the recommended time between cleanings.
How to Diagnose Existing Problems
Even if your hearing aids are currently working, you will still be required to take preventative steps. But if you’re having issues, if your hearing aids aren’t working properly anymore, you’re most likely more interested in some quick fixes.
Try one of the following steps if your hearing aids aren’t functioning correctly:
- Examine your own ears. Sound from your hearing aid could be blocked by earwax buildup.
- Switch between programs or change the settings. How you respond will depend on the model because they’re all different in this regard.
- Adjust the volume. This can be done via a remote or manually via the wheel on the hearing aid. If your hearing aid has both options, try doing both.
- Even if your batteries are rechargeable they will occasionally need to be changed out.
- Turn your hearing aid of then back on. In certain cases, this will correct the problem.
- Inspect the battery compartment. Look for corrosion or loose wiring. If you see any corrosion, you can try carefully cleaning out, but significant damage will have to be repaired professionally.
- Check your hearing aid for wax or debris build up. If you notice any wax accumulation or debris, clean them away.
- Inspect your hearing aids for blemishes, cracks or other obvious signs of damage. Your hearing aid might need to be fixed if you notice any of this type of damage.
If none of these tips address your hearing aid troubles, it’s likely that you’ll have to have the device fixed professionally in order to return it to peak operating condition.
What if Nothing I Try Works?
You will most likely have two options if you’ve tried troubleshooting your hearing aid and it still doesn’t work: either send the hearing aids in for repair or purchase a new pair of hearing aids. Which choice works best for you will depend on your situation, how old your hearing aids are, and other variables.
If your hearing aids aren’t working properly right now, take the time to do some troubleshooting. If that doesn’t work, you can go on to the next steps, such as a conversation with a hearing specialist to find a solution. Schedule an appointment to find a solution today.