There is one component that is crucial to keeping hearing aids cost effective and that is the batteries. It’s 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 troubling. This is a huge problem even for rechargeable brands.
In order to avoid the need to replace the batteries several times each week, you can do a few things to increase their life. 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. Quality of brand and hearing aid features are just a couple of the factors which determine battery life. And certain batteries are higher quality than others. Cheap components and even cheaper batteries are what defines low quality hearing aids. Make sure you talk this over this with your hearing care specialist because you will be switching out the batteries constantly.
Think about 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. These larger devices can potentially go for two weeks without needing new batteries as opposed to the smaller ones which will need battery replacement every two days. Get the features you require but understand how each one impacts the power drainage of the hearing aids.
2. Take the Time to Store the Hearing Aids Properly
To lessen drainage of power you will normally need to open the battery door at night. Also, you will want to:
Store your batteries in a cool, dry place. Humidity and heat will affect battery cells. Room temperature is fine just keep them out of the sun and away from heat sources include light bulbs.
Consider using a hearing aid dehumidifier, too. It’s one of the smartest ways to preserve both the hearing aids and their batteries. Their delicate components are easily destroyed by moisture in the air.
3. Take Precautions When Changing the Batteries
Start with clean, dry hands. Humidity, grease, and dirt all impact battery life. Until it’s time to use the batteries, be sure to keep the plastic tabs on. In order to power on, modern hearing aid batteries mix zinc with air. You don’t want 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 put them in. The battery could be extended by days if you do this.
4. Play Around With Different Batteries and Battery Sources
Quality batteries will last longer than cheap ones, obviously. Don’t just think about the brand, though, but what types of hearing aid batteries you’re using and also where you buy them. If you buy in quantity, you can get good batteries for less at some big box stores.
If you buy them online, particularly from auction sites like eBay, be careful. Batteries have an expiration date that they need to be sold by. You shouldn’t use them after they expire.
Consult your hearing specialist for advice on where to find batteries at affordable prices.
5. Be Ready For The Inevitable
The batteries are going to quit eventually. If you don’t want to end up in a pinch, it’s better to get an idea when this will happen. Make a schedule of when you replace the batteries and when they fizzle. You’ll get an idea of 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 best 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. If you can save money on batteries, it will be worth paying a little more up front. Rechargeable batteries are probably the best choice if you need a lot of features like Bluetooth or wireless.
Hearing aids are a considerable investment but the batteries that make them work are too. Lengthening the life of your batteries and saving cash begins with some due diligence. To find out what your best option for you is, schedule an appointment with a hearing aid specialist.