There is one component that is crucial to making hearing aids economical and that’s the batteries. It’s one of the largest financial challenges consumers have to deal with when buying hearing aids because the costs of replacing them can add up fast.
Even more concerning, what if the batteries die at absolutely the worst moment? This is a huge issue even for rechargeable brands.
In order to avoid the need to replace 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. 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 begins. Quality of brand and hearing aid features are a couple of the factors which dictate battery life. Not every battery is created equally, either. Cheap components and even cheaper batteries are what defines low quality hearing aids. You’ll be switching those batteries out a lot, so be certain to talk it over with your audiologist.
Think about what features you need, and make some comparisons as you shop around. Wireless models have batteries that need replacing 2 times as fast as models with wires. And the bigger hearing aids have longer lasting batteries. These larger devices can possibly go for two weeks without requiring new batteries as opposed to the smaller ones which will need battery replacement every couple of days. Get the features you need but understand how each one impacts the power usage of the hearing aids.
2. Take the Time to Store the Hearing Aids Properly
To avoid drainage of power you will normally need to open the battery door at night. Also, you will want to:
A dry, cool place is where you should keep the batteries. Humidity and heat will impact battery cells. Room temperature is okay just keep them out of the sun and away from heat sources include light bulbs.
Also, a dehumidifier is a smart consideration. 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.
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3. Be Careful When You Change The Batteries
Begin with clean, dry hands. The life of the battery is adversely affected by dampness, dirt, and grease. Until it’s time to use the batteries, be certain to leave the plastic tabs in place. 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 good to let them sit out for five minutes after you remove the tab but before you put them in. The battery could be extended by days if you do this.
4. Play Around With Different Batteries and Battery Sources
High quality batteries will last longer than bargain ones, obviously. Think about not only the brands, though, but what types of hearing aid batteries you’re using and where you buy them, as well. If you buy in quantity, you can get good batteries for less at some big box stores.
If you buy them online, especially from auction sites like eBay, be careful. Batteries have sell-by and expiration dates. After they expire, they shouldn’t be used.
The best way to get batteries at an affordable cost is to ask your audiologist.
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5. Be Ready For The Inevitable
Sooner or later, the batteries are going to quit. It’s better if you get 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 replaced, make a schedule. Over time, you’ll get a feel for when you need replacements.
In order to help you determine what features have the biggest affect on the battery and which brand batteries are appropriate 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. If you can save money on batteries, it will be worth paying a little more up front. Rechargeable batteries are likely the best choice if you need a lot of features such as Bluetooth or wireless.
The batteries that make hearing aids run can be as significant an investment as the hearing aids themselves. A small amount of due diligence goes a long way to lengthening the life of those batteries and saving you cash. Contact a hearing aid retailer for some information on what option is best for you.
