The trick to keeping hearing aids cost effective hinges on just one component–the batteries. It is one of the biggest financial challenges consumers face when buying hearing aids because the costs of replacing them can add up fast.
Usually the batteries die at the worst time which is even more distressing. Even for rechargeable brands, this is a big issue.
In order to avoid the need to exchange the batteries several times a week, you can do several things to increase their life. Consider these six easy ways you can make those batteries last just a little bit longer.
1. Be a Smart Hearing Aid Consumer
It begins when you are initially shopping for your hearing aids. Battery life is dependent on many factors like features on the hearing aids or brand quality. Not every battery is made the same, either. Cheap components and even cheaper batteries are what defines low quality hearing aids. Be sure to discuss this with your hearing care specialist because you will be changing out the batteries constantly.
Compare the different models as you shop and, also, consider what features are crucial for you. You’ll find that non-wireless hearing aids come with batteries that can last two times as long as the wireless models. And the bigger hearing aids have longer lasting batteries. The smaller devices will need new batteries every couple of days, but larger models can go for up to two weeks on one set of cells. Understand how all of the features of a hearing aid affect the power expenditure and then select the ones you require.
2. Take the Time to Store the Hearing Aids Properly
In most situations, the manufacturer will suggest opening the battery door at night to avoid power drainage. Also, you will want to:
A dry, cool place is where you should store the batteries. Humidity and high temperatures will impact battery cells. The main thing is to keep them away from heat sources such as light bulbs. Room temperature is fine.
Also, a dehumidifier is a smart idea. Both the batteries and the hearing aid itself are protected by doing this. Humidity in the air is brutal on their fragile components.
3. Take Precautions When Changing the Batteries
Begin with clean, dry hands. Humidity, dirt, and grease all impact battery life. Don’t forget to leave the plastic tab on until it’s time to use the new batteries, too. Modern 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 put them in, it’s good to allow to them sit out for 5 minutes. Doing this can extend the life of the battery by days.
4. Different Battery Sources And Batteries Can be Experimented with
Needless to say, cheap batteries will wear out faster than high quality ones. Think about not only the brands, though, but what types of hearing aid batteries you’re using and also where you purchase them. Big box stores commonly sell quality batteries for less per unit if you buy in quantity.
Use caution if you buy them online, especially from an auction site such as eBay. Batteries have an expiration date that they have to be sold by. Once they expire, they shouldn’t be used.
The best way to find batteries at an affordable cost is to ask your hearing care specialist.
5. Be Ready For The Inevitable
The batteries are going to quit sooner or later. It’s beneficial if you have an idea when that will occur, so you don’t find yourself in a difficult situation. Make a schedule of when you replace the batteries and when they fizzle. You’ll get a feel for when you need to replace them over time.
In order to help you figure out what features have the biggest effect on the battery and which brand batteries are appropriate for your device, keep a diary.
6. Consider the Alternatives to Batteries
One of the best things about newer hearing aids is that some are rechargeable. You may pay a little 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 probably the best choice.
The batteries that make hearing aids run can be as substantial an investment as the hearing aids are. Extending the life of your batteries and saving cash begins with a little due diligence. Contact a hearing aid retailer for some information on what option is best for you.