Hearing Aid Batteries
Everything You Need to Know About Hearing Aid Batteries
To ensure that your hearing aids work properly, they require a consistent power supply. Even minor changes in power output can impact their performance, clarity, and volume control. The type of battery required for your hearing aids depends on their size and power requirements.
The lifespan of your battery depends on several factors, such as the type of hearing aid, the size of the battery, and how often you use your devices. Our audiologists can provide you with guidance on the best type of battery for your hearing aids, as well as tips for extending their lifespan. Additionally, we offer batteries for purchase in our office and can provide you with information on how to properly store and handle them.
The lifespan of a zinc-air battery can vary widely depending on factors such as hearing aid type, battery capacity, and usage time. Typically, a zinc-air battery can last anywhere from three to 22 days, with the smallest batteries lasting around three to four days for 12-16 hours of daily use and larger batteries lasting several weeks for a couple of hours of use per day.
To preserve battery life, it’s recommended to turn off the hearing aid when it’s not in use, or to open the battery door to allow accumulated moisture to dry out. If the hearing aid won’t be used for an extended period, removing the battery entirely is the best approach. When storing batteries, it’s important to keep them at normal room temperature and to wash your hands thoroughly to remove any dirt or grease that may affect battery performance. Finally, if the battery dies, it’s important to remove it immediately to prevent swelling and difficulty in removing it from the hearing aid.
How Do I Change My Batteries?
There are several indicators that can help you determine when to replace your hearing aid batteries. Some hearing aids emit a low beep when the battery is low, while others use verbal prompts to alert the user to replace the battery. In the absence of such warnings, the sound quality of the hearing aid may begin to degrade, become distorted, or eventually cease altogether. As a result, you may notice that the hearing aid sounds quieter before the battery dies, which is an indication that it needs to be replaced. However, if replacing the battery does not resolve the issue, it may indicate that the device is damaged and requires professional attention from a hearing care provider.
To insert or replace batteries:
- Use the nail grip to open the battery door.
- Remove the old battery if needed.
- Take the new battery out of its package and pull the protective tab off the battery.
- Allow the battery to rest for five minutes before placing it into the compartment.
- Align the “+” sign on the flat side of the battery with the “+” sign on the battery door.
- Once the battery is securely in place, close the battery door.
Change a RIC Battery
Change Custom Mold Battery
Different Types of Batteries
There are four primary battery sizes for hearing aids, and each size is associated with a specific color-coded package: yellow for size 10, orange for size 13, brown for size 312, and blue for size 675. The appropriate battery size for your hearing aid typically depends on its size and design.
Zinc-air batteries are the standard type used for hearing aids. These batteries are activated upon exposure to air, making it crucial to keep them sealed in their packaging until they are ready to be used. Do not transfer batteries from their original packages to a single container, as this may result in dead batteries. Additionally, do not purchase batteries if the packaging seal is broken.
Battery Tips:
- Once the tab is removed from the battery, wait for approximately 5 minutes before closing the battery compartment.
- Do not apply excessive force to shut the battery door, as it may damage the hearing aid or the battery compartment. Ensure that the battery is inserted correctly.
- Avoid opening the battery door too far, as it may result in damage.
- Dispose of used batteries promptly in a garbage bin. They can be harmful to children or pets if swallowed.
- Consider using a hearing aid multicleaning tool with a magnetic end to handle the batteries
Why Rechargeables?
The use of rechargeable hearing aids offers several benefits over traditional batteries, including increased reliability, convenience, and greater power capacity. By choosing a rechargeable option, you can experience a noticeable improvement in the quality of sound and ease of use.
This technology offers:
- Savings: Only one battery purchase per device per year.
- Peace of mind: Experience reliable, stable, and uninterrupted power all day long.
- Quick charge: Recharge your batteries while you sleep and wake up to all-day power.
- Stress-free maintenance: Avoid the hassle of buying and installing disposable batteries.
- Convenience: Replace your batteries only once a year, during your annual checkup.
- Eco-friendly: One pair of rechargeable batteries is equivalent to 200 disposables, making it better for the environment.
How to Get Rechargeable Hearing Aids
If you use hearing aids or are planning to buy them, rechargeable batteries can be a suitable choice. Many new hearing aid models already come with this feature, but some older ones can also be retrofitted for it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hearing care providers often offer additional benefits with the purchase of hearing aids, such as follow-up care, refittings, and warranties that cover damage. The cost of standard zinc-air batteries ranges from $10 to $17 for an 18-pack, which typically provides several weeks of power. Total battery costs for a year may vary from $30 to $150 depending on the style and usage of the hearing aids.
The frequency of changing hearing aid batteries largely depends on two factors: the type of hearing aid and the amount of usage. Smaller hearing aids, such as invisible units, require smaller batteries with less power and may only last for three to five days with continuous use. On the other hand, larger hearing aids like behind-the-ear units can last for weeks with limited daily usage and typically last for five to seven days with regular usage.
