The key to keeping hearing aids economical hinges on just one component–the batteries. The cost of exchanging them adds up quickly and that makes it one of the biggest financial concerns when buying hearing aids.
Usually the batteries quit at the worst time which is even more troubling. This is a huge problem even for rechargeable brands.
There are a few things you can do to extend the life of the batteries in hearing aids, so you don’t need to stop and replace them a few times a 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
When you first start shopping for your hearing aids is when it all begins. Battery life depends on several factors including features of the hearing aids or brand quality. Not every battery is created equally, either. Cheap components and even cheaper batteries are what defines low quality hearing aids. Be sure to talk this over this with your hearing care specialist because you will be switching out the batteries a lot.
Consider what features you need, and make some comparisons as you shop around. You’ll find that non-wireless hearing aids come with batteries that can last twice as long as the wireless devices. The larger the hearing aid, the longer the battery will last, too. The smaller devices require new batteries every couple of days, but larger units can go for up to two weeks on one battery. 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 prevent drainage of power you will usually have to open the battery door at night. Also, you will want to:
A dry, cool location is where you should keep the batteries. Batteries are adversely affected by heat and humidity. 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 in this way. Moisture in the air is hard on their fragile components.
3. Be Careful When You Change The Batteries
Be certain your hands are dry and clean. The life of the battery is adversely impacted by moisture, grease, and germs. Don’t forget to leave the plastic tab on until you are ready to use the new batteries, too. The latest hearing aid batteries mix zinc with the air to power on. But you want to be ready before that happens.
It is worth letting 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
Needless to say, cheap batteries will die faster than high quality ones. Think about not just the brands, though, but what types of hearing aid batteries you’re using and also where you buy them. Big box stores might sell good batteries for less per unit if you buy in bulk.
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. After they expire, they shouldn’t be used.
The best way to get batteries at an affordable cost is to ask your hearing care specialist.
5. Accept The Inevitable And be Ready For it
The batteries are going to die eventually. It’s better if you get an idea when that will occur, so you don’t find yourself in a pinch. To keep track of when the batteries fizzle and need to be replaced, make a schedule. You’ll get an idea of when you need to change them over time.
A diary will also assist you in figuring out which brands are right for your hearing devices and what features have the biggest effect on the battery life.
6. What Are the Alternatives to Batteries
One of the best things about newer hearing aids is that some are rechargeable. 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 likely the better choice.
Hearing aids are a significant investment but so are the batteries that you need to make them work. A little due diligence goes a long way to extending the life of those batteries and saving you money. To find out what your best option for you is, schedule an appointment with a hearing aid specialist.