There is one component that is crucial to making hearing aids cost effective and that’s 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 distressing. Even for rechargeable brands, this is a big problem.
In order to avoid the need to replace the batteries several times a week, you can do several things to extend their life. Think about these six easy ways you can make those batteries last just a little bit longer.
1. Be a Smart Hearing Aid Consumer
It begins 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 some batteries are better than others. Some less expensive hearing devices have low quality parts that work with cheaper cell batteries. Make sure you talk this over this with your hearing care specialist because you will be changing out the batteries constantly.
Make some comparisons as you shop and, also, consider what features are crucial for you. Wireless versions come with batteries that die twice as fast as devices with wires. And the larger hearing aids have longer lasting batteries. 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 couple of days. Get the features you require but understand how each one affects the power usage of the hearing aids.
2. Take the Time to Store the Hearing Aids Properly
In most cases, the manufacturer will suggest opening the battery door at night to prevent power drainage. Also, you will want to:
A dry, cool location is where you should store the batteries. Battery cells are adversely affected by heat and humidity. The most important 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 smartest ways to preserve both the hearing aids and their batteries. Moisture in the air is brutal on their fragile components.
3. Take Precautions When Changing the Batteries
Be certain your hands are dry and clean. Humidity, dirt, and grease all affect 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.
After you remove the tab, but before you use them, it’s good to let them sit out for 5 minutes. The battery could be prolonged by days if you do this.
4. Different Battery Sources And Batteries Can be Experimented with
High quality batteries will last longer than cheap ones, obviously. Think about not just the brands, though, but what types of hearing aid batteries you’re using and where you purchase them, as well. If you buy in quantity, you can get good batteries for less at some big box stores.
Use caution if you buy them online, particularly from an auction site like eBay. Batteries have an expiration date that they have to be sold by. You shouldn’t use them once they expire.
Ask your hearing specialist for advice on where to get batteries at affordable prices.
5. Be Ready For The Unavoidable
Eventually, the batteries are going to quit. It’s beneficial if you have an idea when that will occur, so you don’t end up in a pinch. To keep track of when the batteries fizzle and need to be replaced, make a schedule. Over time, you’ll get a feel for when you need replacements.
A diary will also assist you in figuring out which brands are right for your hearing devices and what features have the biggest effect on the battery life.
6. Consider the Alternatives to Batteries
One of the greatest things about newer hearing aids is that some are rechargeable. You might pay a little more for those units, but it will be worth it if you can save money on batteries. If you need a lot of features like wireless or Bluetooth, then rechargeable batteries are probably the better choice.
The batteries that make hearing aids work can be as significant an investment as the hearing aids themselves. Extending the life of your batteries and saving cash starts with some due diligence. To find out what your best option for you is, schedule an appointment with a hearing aid specialist.