The trick to making hearing aids cost effective lies in just one component–the batteries. It is one of the largest financial concerns consumers face when buying hearing aids because the costs of replacing them can add up fast.
Usually the batteries quit at the worst time which is even more distressing. Even for rechargeable brands, this is a huge issue.
There are things you can do to increase the life of the batteries in hearing aids, so you don’t have to stop and replace them several times every week. 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
It starts when you are beginning to shop for your hearing aids. Battery life is dependent on several factors including features of the hearing aids or quality of the brand. And certain batteries are higher quality than others. Cheap components and even cheaper batteries are what defines low quality hearing aids. You’ll be changing those batteries out all the time, so make sure to discuss this with your hearing specialist.
Consider what features you need, and make some comparisons as you look around. Wireless models come with batteries that need replacing 2 times 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 two days, but larger units can go for around two weeks on one set of cells. Understand how all of the features of a hearing aid affect the power expenditure and then choose the ones you require.
2. Take the Time to Store the Hearing Aids Properly
In most situations, the manufacturer will recommend opening the battery door at night to prevent power drainage. 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 okay 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 best ways to protect both the hearing aids and their batteries. Moisture in the air is hard on their delicate components.
3. Be Careful When You Change The Batteries
Start with clean, dry hands. Humidity, grease, and dirt all affect battery life. Don’t forget to leave the plastic tab in place until it’s time 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 good to let them sit out for five minutes after you pull the tab but before you install them. The battery could be prolonged by days if you do this.
4. Different Battery Sources And Batteries Can be Experimented with
It goes without saying, bargain batteries will die faster than high quality ones. Don’t only think about the brand, though, but what types of hearing aid batteries you’re using and also where you purchase them. If you buy in quantity, you can get good batteries for less at some big box stores.
Use caution if you buy them online, particularly from an auction site such as eBay. Batteries have sell-by and expiration dates. You shouldn’t use them once they expire.
Ask your hearing specialist for advice on where to find batteries at affordable prices.
5. Be Ready For The Inevitable
Eventually, 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. Make a schedule of when you change the batteries and when they fizzle. You’ll get a feel for when you need to change them over time.
So you can 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 best features. If you can save money on batteries, it will be worth paying a little more up front. If you need a bunch of features like wireless or Bluetooth, then rechargeable batteries are probably the best choice.
The batteries that make hearing aids work can be as substantial 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. To find out what your best option for you is, schedule an appointment with a hearing aid specialist.