There is one component that is crucial to making hearing aids economical and that is the batteries. It is one of the largest financial worries consumers face when shopping for hearing aids because the costs of replacing them can add up fast.
Even more worrying, what if the batteries quit at absolutely the worst moment? Even for rechargeable brands, this is a huge issue.
In order to avoid the need to exchange the batteries several times each week, you can do a few things to extend their life. Think about these six easy ways you can make those batteries last just a little bit longer.
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. Battery life depends on several factors such as features on the hearing aids or brand quality. And some batteries are higher quality than others. 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 constantly.
Compare the different models as you shop and, also, consider what features are crucial for you. You’ll find that non-wireless hearing aids come with batteries that can last two times as long as the wireless devices. And the larger hearing aids have longer lasting batteries. The smaller devices will need new batteries every couple of days, but larger models can go for up to two weeks on one set of cells. Recognize how all of the features of a hearing aid affect the power usage and then select the ones you require.
2. The Hearing Aids Need to be Stored Properly
To lessen drainage of power you will usually need to open the battery door at night. Also, you will want to:
Keep your batteries in a cool, dry place. Battery cells are adversely affected by high temperature and moisture. The most important thing is to keep them away from heat sources like light bulbs. Room temperature is okay.
Also, a dehumidifier is a smart consideration. Both the batteries and the hearing aid itself are protected by doing this. Humidity in the air is hard on their delicate components.
3. Take Precautions When Changing the Batteries
Begin with clean, dry hands. Dampness, grease, and dirt all affect battery quality. Don’t forget to keep the plastic tab in place until you are ready to use the new batteries, too. In order to power on, current hearing aid batteries mix zinc with air. You don’t want that to happen before you are ready.
After you pull the tab, but before you use them, it’s smart to let them sit out for 5 minutes. The battery could be extended by days if you do this.
4. Play Around With Different Batteries and Battery Sources
It goes without saying, cheap batteries will wear out faster than quality ones. Don’t just think about the brand, 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 quantity.
If you buy them online, especially from auction sites such as eBay, be careful. Batteries have an expiration date that they need to be sold by. You shouldn’t use them after they expire.
The easiest way to get batteries at an affordable cost is to ask your hearing care specialist.
5. Be Ready For The Unavoidable
The batteries are going to quit sooner or later. It’s beneficial if you get an idea when that will happen, 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.
In order to help you determine 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
Some current day hearing aids are rechargeable and that is one of the best features. You could pay a little 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 probably the best choice.
The batteries that make hearing aids run can be as significant an investment as the hearing aids themselves. 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.