Contrary to popular belief, winter is fun! Well, if you have to go somewhere, it can certainly be difficult. Or if you aren’t properly prepared. But during those cold winter months, you can find lots of enjoyable things to do.
Still not convinced? Well, here are just a few examples of how cold weather can be enjoyable: you could go sledding or skiing. You could have some fun on a snowmobile! You could go out onto the ice for some ice skating or ice fishing. You can enjoy being outside in the winter just as much as the summer, spring, or, autumn if you have the proper gear.
But that’s a major caveat: you need the proper gear to remain comfortable. Perhaps you’re wondering if your hearing aid counts as part of that gear and whether it will be effected by the cold. Or can cold weather damage my hearing aids?
Most hearing aids are designed to be all-weather… to a point
Hearing aids are made to be used full-time. They’re designed to be worn pretty much everywhere you go. Which means that hearing aid makers are aware that these devices may take a beating. We don’t recommend you do anything drastic with your hearing aids, just keep in mind that they’re designed to accompany you throughout your normal daily tasks.
Most hearing aids are built to be basically “all weather” as a result. The safe temperature range for most hearing aids is from -13 to 158 degrees Fahrenheit. That covers the broad spectrum of temperature possibilities (even though there are some places, especially up north, that will sometimes get colder than -13 degrees).
You will be able to hear well in most settings and that’s a great thing. So why don’t my hearing aids seem to work as well when it’s really cold? Well, drops in temperature will put stress on your devices, so while they might function, they may not operate optimally.
Some winter hearing aid tips
Fortunately, there are some things you can do to help ensure your hearing aids continue to work at maximum efficiency (or close enough) even in cold weather.
- Keep your hearing aids somewhere warm and dry when you aren’t using them: Your hearing aid will function better and with fewer issues if you keep moisture out of it. Maybe you aren’t sure how to eliminate moisture from your hearing aid. Usually, you can wipe it down and let it air dry in a warm spot.
- It’s helpful to wear earmuffs or a hat: Not only will this keep your ears warm, it’ll keep your hearing aids toasty, also! And the warmer your hearing aids are, the more ideally they’ll be working. Maybe you’re wondering whether your hearing aids will still work if you have earmuffs over them. Well, it depends on the hearing aid, but in most cases, your hearing aids will still continue to work.
- Keep your hearing aids secured in your ear by utilizing accessories.: In order to make sure your hearing aids stay securely in place in your ears you can utilize one of many available straps or clips. This can be particularly important if you’re engaged in strenuous activity, including skiing, skating, or sledding.
- Getting your hearing aid wet isn’t a smart idea: Be careful not to get snow on your hearing aid because when snow melts, things get wet. If you’re going to ask, “Well, can I wear hearing aids when it’s raining or snowing”? Yes, you can. Most hearing aids are water resistant but not usually waterproof. So while your hearing aid will probably be okay if it gets a little wet, you should dry it as soon as you can.
- Be certain you have freshly charged batteries: Hearing aid batteries don’t necessarily freeze but they will drain quicker in the cold. This means you’ll want to make certain you have a full charge before going out into any severe weather.
- Consult us about how your hearing aids are fitting: Hearing aids can sometimes be uncomfortable when they’re cold. Minimize any possible discomfort by getting help from us with the fit of your device.
Perhaps you’re wondering how to safeguard your hearing aids when it gets cold. Well, now you’ve got some answers.
If your hearing aid stops working, what should you do?
Occasionally, unfortunately, your hearing aid will quit working even when the weather is warm and dry. There are a few basic troubleshooting steps you can take (for instance, make sure the batteries are charged and that your devices are good and dry). If you still can’t figure out why they’re not working, we should be able to assist you with that.
You can still enjoy life even when it’s cold!
When it’s -10 degrees outside, it’s reasonable that you would want to stay inside. Maybe you aren’t a winter person. Possibly you’re going to cook yourself some nice hot soup. Possibly snowmobiles aren’t your jam. The important thing is that it shouldn’t be your hearing aids that are stopping you from living your greatest winter life.
If you observe the tips above and take good care of your hearing aids, this is particularly true. Give us a call if you have any questions about how your hearing aids may be effected by the cold.