The key to keeping hearing aids cost effective hinges on just one component–the batteries. The cost of exchanging them adds up fast and that makes it one of the biggest financial concerns when buying hearing aids.
Even more concerning, what if the batteries quit at absolutely the worst moment? Even for rechargeable brands, this is a big problem.
so that you can avoid the need to replace the batteries several times each week, you can do a few things to extend their life. Make the batteries last just a little bit longer by considering these 6 easy ideas.
1. If You’re Looking to Buy a Hearing Aid, be Smart About it
When you first start shopping for your hearing aids is when it all starts. Battery life depends on multiple factors like features of the hearing aids or brand quality. Not all batteries are created equally, 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 a lot.
Make some comparisons 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. The larger the hearing aid, the longer the battery will last, too. The smaller devices require new batteries every couple of days, but larger models can go for up to two weeks on one set of cells. Get the features you need 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 have to open the battery door at night. Also, you will want to:
A dry, cool location is where you should store the batteries. Battery cells are adversely impacted by heat and moisture. Room temperature is fine just keep them out of the sun and away from heat sources include light bulbs.
Think about using a hearing aid dehumidifier, too. Both the batteries and the hearing aid itself are protected by doing this. Their fragile components are easily damaged by moisture in the air.
3. Be Careful When You Change The Batteries
Begin with clean, dry hands. The quality of the battery is negatively impacted by humidity, dirt, and grease. Don’t forget to leave the plastic tab on until you are ready to use the new batteries, too. In order to power on, current hearing aid batteries mix zinc with air. You don’t need 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 put them in. Doing this can increase 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 about the brand, though, but what types of hearing aid batteries you’re using and also where you buy 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, use caution. Batteries have sell-by and expiration dates. You shouldn’t use them once they expire.
Consult your hearing specialist for advice on where to find batteries at affordable prices.
5. Accept The Inevitable And be Ready For it
Sooner or later, the batteries are going to die. It’s beneficial if you have an idea when that will occur, so you don’t end up in a pinch. 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.
A diary will also assist you in figuring out which brands are best for your hearing devices and what features most affect the battery life.
6. What Are the Alternatives to Batteries
Some modern day hearing aids are rechargeable and that is one of the best features. If you can save money on batteries, it will be worth paying a little more initially. If you need a bunch of features like wireless or Bluetooth, then rechargeable batteries are likely the best option.
The batteries that make hearing aids run can be as significant an investment as the hearing aids are. A small amount of due diligence goes a long way to extending the life of those batteries and saving you cash. Contact a hearing aid retailer for some information on what option is best for you.