The key to keeping hearing aids cost effective lies in just one component–the batteries. It is one of the biggest financial worries consumers have to deal with when shopping for hearing aids because the costs of replacing them can add up fast.
Usually the batteries quit at the worst time which is even more distressing. This is a big problem even for rechargeable brands.
In order to avoid the need to replace the batteries several times each week, you can do several things to extend their life. Make the batteries last just a little bit longer by considering these 6 simple ideas.
1. If You’re Looking to Buy a Hearing Aid, be Smart About it
When you first start to shop for your hearing aids is when it all starts. Brand quality and hearing aid features are just a couple of the factors which dictate battery life. Not all batteries are made the same, either. Some less expensive hearing products have low quality parts that work with cheaper cell batteries. Be sure to discuss this with your hearing care specialist because you will be switching out the batteries a lot.
Make some comparisons as you shop and, also, consider what features are crucial for you. Wireless versions come with batteries that need replacing twice as fast as models with wires. The larger the hearing aid, the longer the battery life, too. These larger devices can potentially go for a couple of weeks without requiring new batteries as opposed to the smaller ones which will require battery replacement every two days. Understand how all of the features of a hearing aid impact the power expenditure and then select the ones you require.
2. The Hearing Aids Need to be Stored Properly
To avoid drainage of power you will normally need to open the battery door at night. Also, you will want to:
A dry, cool location 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 like light bulbs. Room temperature is fine.
Also, a dehumidifier is a smart consideration. It’s one of the best ways to preserve both the hearing aids and their batteries. Moisture in the air is hard on their delicate components.
3. Take Precautions When Changing the Batteries
Start with clean, dry hands. Humidity, grease, and dirt all affect battery life. Don’t forget to leave the plastic tab in place until it’s time to use the new batteries, too. In order to power on, current hearing aid batteries mix zinc with air. But you want to be ready before that occurs.
It is worth letting them sit out for five minutes after you remove the tab but before you install them. Doing this can increase the life of the battery by days.
4. Play Around With Different Batteries and Battery Sources
High 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 where you purchase them, as well. Big box stores might sell good batteries for less per unit if you buy in quantity.
If you purchase them online, especially from auction sites such as eBay, use caution. Batteries have an expiration date that they have to be sold by. After they expire, they shouldn’t be used.
Consult your hearing specialist for advice on where to find batteries at affordable prices.
5. Be Ready For The Unavoidable
Sooner or later, the batteries are going to die. It’s beneficial if you get an idea when that will happen, so you don’t end up in a pinch. Make a schedule of when you replace the batteries and when they fizzle. Over time, you’ll get an idea for when you need replacements.
So you can figure out what features have the biggest effect on the battery and which brand batteries are appropriate for your device, keep a diary.
6. What Are the Alternatives to Batteries
One of the greatest things about modern hearing aids is that some are rechargeable. You might pay slightly 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 likely the better choice.
Hearing aids are a considerable investment but so are the batteries that you need to make them work. A little due diligence goes a long way to lengthening the life of those batteries and saving you money. Contact a hearing aid retailer for some information on what option is best for you.