There is one component that is crucial to keeping hearing aids cost effective and that’s the batteries. The cost of replacing them adds up quickly and that makes it one of the biggest financial issues when shopping for hearing aids.
Usually the batteries quit at the worst time which is even more troubling. Even for rechargeable brands, this is a huge issue.
so that you can avoid the need to exchange the batteries several times each week, you can do several things to extend their life. Think about these six simple ways you can make those batteries last just a little bit longer.
1. Be a Smart Hearing Aid Consumer
It begins when you are beginning to shop for your hearing aids. Brand quality and hearing aid features are just a couple of the factors which determine battery life. Not every battery is made the same, either. Some less expensive hearing devices have low quality parts that work with cheaper cell batteries. You’ll be changing those batteries out all the time, so make sure to discuss this with your hearing specialist.
Compare the different models as you shop and, also, consider what features are crucial for you. Wireless models come with batteries that die twice as fast as models with wires. The bigger the hearing aid, the longer the battery will last, too. The smaller devices require new batteries every couple of days, but larger units can go for up to two weeks on one set of cells. Get the features you require but understand how each one affects the power usage of the hearing aids.
2. The Hearing Aids Need to be Stored Properly
To avoid drainage of power you will usually have to open the battery door at night. Also, you will want to:
A dry, cool place is where you should store 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.
Think about using a hearing aid dehumidifier, too. It’s one of the smartest ways to protect both the hearing aids and their batteries. Moisture in the air is hard on their fragile components.
3. Take Precautions When Changing the Batteries
Be certain your hands are dry and clean. The life of the battery is adversely affected by humidity, dirt, and grease. Until it’s time to use the batteries, be sure to keep the plastic tabs in place. The latest hearing aid batteries mix zinc with the air to power up. You don’t want that to happen before you are ready.
After you remove the tab, but before you use them, it’s good to allow them sit out for 5 minutes. Doing this can increase the life of the battery by days.
4. Play Around With Different Batteries and Battery Sources
High quality batteries have a longer life than cheap ones, obviously. Think about not just the brands, though, but what types of hearing aid batteries you’re using and also where you buy them. If you buy in bulk, you can get good batteries for less at some big box stores.
If you purchase them online, particularly from auction sites such as eBay, use caution. Batteries have sell-by and expiration dates. You shouldn’t use them after they expire.
Consult your hearing specialist for advice on where to find batteries at affordable prices.
5. Be Ready For The Inevitable
The batteries are going to die eventually. If you don’t want to end up in a difficult situation, it’s helpful to get an idea when this will happen. To keep track of when the batteries fizzle and need to be changed, make a schedule. You’ll get a feel for when you need to replace them over time.
In order to help you determine what features have the biggest effect on the battery and which brand batteries are best for your device, keep a diary.
6. Consider the Alternatives to Batteries
Some current day hearing aids are rechargeable and that is one of the greatest features. You may pay slightly more for those units, but it will be worth it if you can save money on batteries. If you need a bunch of features like wireless or Bluetooth, then rechargeable batteries are likely the best choice.
Hearing aids are a considerable investment but so are the batteries that you need to make them work. A little due diligence goes a long way to lengthening 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.