Hearing loss can be a difficult thing for an individual to face, but with the help of an audiologist, people can access the treatment that they need and continue to communicate as normal. In the last few years, the technology associated with hearing aids has advanced and this has far enriched the lives of those with hearing problems. Having said this, even with a top-quality hearing aid, sometimes the batteries can let you down. Fortunately, there are a few tricks that you can use to make your hearing aid batteries last that little bit longer

Battery night care

At night time, or any other time when you are not using your hearing aid, it’s a good idea to open the compartment which contains the battery. Doing so will stop your hearing aid occurring any damages due to the corrosion of the battery. You will also be allowing any moisture to escape from the inside. The build-up of moisture inside a hearing aid can also lead to damage of the device. It’s best to take such precautions to prevent this. 

Try a dehumidifier 

It’s a good idea to invest in a hearing aid dehumidifier; this can help further to deal with the problem of too much moisture. A dehumidifier will work to absorb excess moisture and thus improve the performance of both the battery and the hearing aid. A dehumidifier is undoubtedly a worthwhile purchase to ensure the longevity of the hearing aid and the battery too. 

Air out the batteries

It’s always a good idea to air out the battery if you wish to improve the power and battery life overall. You can do this simply by just leaving the battery out for around five minutes just before you put it inside your hearing aid. 

Wash your hands first

Ensure that your hands are as clean as possible when handling the batteries. If there is any dirt or grit on the batteries, then this could also end up causing damage to the hearing aid. You’ll want to preserve the cleanliness and performance of your hearing aid the best that you can, and straightforward things like this can do the trick just fine! 

Pay attention to storage 

You should always keep your batteries in a cool and dry place so that the temperature or conditions does not drain them. Storing your batteries in the wrong conditions could mean that they have a shorter life overall. Your batteries always need to be stored at room temperature to ensure that you get the best use out of them. Zinc-air batteries do not respond very well to moisture, so a comfortable room temp that’s not too cold or hot is the best idea. 

Keep the sticker tabs on 

Hearing aids use zinc-air batteries, and these will come with a sticker tab which covers up the small holes at the top. If you take this tap off, air goes inside the holes and reacts with the zinc. Essentially, once you’ve removed this sticker tab, you have activated the battery and so the power will begin to drain away. For this reason, make sure that you only take off the tab when you plan to use the battery and not before. 

Remove when appropriate 

If there is ever a time whereby you won’t be using your hearing aid for a long period, it’s best to take the batteries out. Doing so will mean that you prevent corrosion from any moisture that may have collected inside the device. 

Buy the newest ones

Pay attention to expiry dates when you are purchasing your hearing aid batteries. Always purchase the newest ones with the most time possible until they expire. Of course, unopened batteries can last for years on end; however, each year the power will diminish slightly. Due to this, it’s best to go for the newest ones that you can find. 

Consider rechargeable batteries 

Some like to use a hearing device with a rechargeable battery, and this can be an excellent solution for those who want the convenience. With such devices, you can charge up the battery every night and ensure that you have all the power that you need for the next day. 

Simple tricks can make all the difference when it comes to your hearing aid batteries, so all of these are worth giving a try! If you would like to discuss anything related to your hearing problems further, you can contact the Audiology and Hearing Aid Center at (920) 486-6922. Our audiologists and ready and waiting to discuss anything that you need help with.