We tend to notice technology the most when it isn’t working. With hearing aids that’s particularly true: To the majority of people who use them, hearing aids are more than a piece of technology; they’re a vital lifeline to the rest of the world.
So identifying solutions for a malfunctioning hearing aid, and discovering those solutions quickly, is vital for both physiological and emotional reasons. Whether you’ve been wearing your hearing aids for a week, a year, or decades, troubleshooting can be a high-stakes, troublesome process. But there are some fairly easy strategies you can try to get your hearing aid working properly again.
Preventing Trouble Before it Occurs
Any advanced piece of technology needs maintenance, and hearing aids are no exception. Despite the fact that the casing may appear simple and robust, the electronics inside can be incredibly sophisticated.
Due to this you need to keep them well maintained. As you’re wearing your hearing aids, there are a few things you can do that will make taking care of them easier.
Keeping Your Hearing Aids Clean is a Must
Your ears naturally and normally generate a certain amount of wax every day. And, the ear wax is, to a certain extent helpful for your ears. But it’s not so great for your hearing aids. To help improve the life of your device keep your hearing aids clean and clear of wax. In fact, a built-in wax filter comes standard with most hearing aids that should also be periodically cleaned.
Moisture is The Enemy of Hearing Aids
Electronics and moisture don’t mix. And in spite of the best protection technology can produce, repeated subjection to moisture can gradually wear out the internal electronics of your hearing aids, reducing their effectiveness.
This Means wearing your hearing aids in the pool or shower is a bad idea. Also, towel dry your hearing aids if they get wet. Don’t use a hair dryer because it can harm them.
Make an Appointment With Professional Cleaners
Hearing aids are delicate (and often expensive) technology, and as such, they call for specialized cleaning practices. A specialized cleaner can better accomplish certain things that you can’t, even if you’re fairly rigorous about your cleaning routines.
That’s why it’s suggested that you take your hearing aids in to be cleaned every 4-6 months.
Troubleshooting Issues That Are Already Occurring
Even if your hearing aids are presently working, you will still be required to take protective steps. You’re probably more interested in quick fixes if your experiencing problems with your hearing aids not working anymore.
If your hearing aids aren’t working correctly, try one of the following steps:
- Adjust the volume. This can be done with a remote or manually with the wheel on the hearing aid. If your hearing aid has both options, try doing both.
- Check your own ears. It’s possible that earwax accumulation in your ear canal is interfering with the sound from your hearing aid.
- Inspect the battery compartment. Look for corrosion or loose wiring. Any substantial damage will need to be repaired by a professional but you can try cleaning away any corrosion you discover.
- Turn your hearing aid of then back on. This will correct the problem in certain cases.
- Even if your batteries are rechargeable they will periodically need to be replaced.
- Change the settings or switch between programs. Many hearing aids are different in this respect, so your response will depend on the model you have.
- Check your hearing aid for debris or wax build up. Gently clear away any debris or wax you may find.
- Inspect your hearing aids for blemishes, cracks or other obvious signs of damage. Your hearing aid might need to be fixed if you find any of this type of damage.
If none of these measures address your hearing aid problems, it’s likely that you’ll have to have the device fixed professionally in order to return it to peak operating condition.
What if That Doesn’t Help My Hearing Aids?
When your hearing aids aren’t functioning properly anymore and troubleshooting has not addressed the issue, you will most likely have two choices: you either have to get a new set or send them in for repair. The age of your hearing aids, your personal situation, and other variables will determine which choice will work best for you.
If your hearing aids aren’t functioning properly right now, take the time to try some troubleshooting. A discussion with your hearing professional to determine a solution is the next step if that doesn’t work. To find a solution make your appointment right away.