Boosting the life of your hearing aid batteries can save you both time and money. If you can get a few additional days out of each battery, that’s a good amount saved through the course of a year.
Luckily, there are several things you can do to maximize the life of your hearing aid batteries. If you can turn these eight tips into habits, you should see a difference immediately.
The following are eight ways to optimize the lifespan of your hearing aid batteries.
1. Purchase new hearing aid batteries
Hearing aid batteries unopened in the packaging can last for years. However, just like all batteries, power is diminished as each year passes by, so it’s always better to buy the newer package.
2. Don’t remove the tab until you’re ready to use the batteries
Hearing aids use a unique kind of battery called a zinc-air battery. Each one has a plastic tab covering tiny holes on the top of the battery. As soon as the tab is removed, air enters the holes and stimulates the zinc.
As soon as this happens, the battery is live and the power starts draining (reapplying the tab has no effect). That’s why you should remove the tab only if you intend on using the battery immediately.
3. Apply the five-minute rule
After you remove the tab, don’t place the battery into the hearing aid right away. Instead, wait around 5-7 minutes. This will allow the air to completely activate the battery, increasing its life by up to three days.
4. Store at room temperature
You may have read that you can prolong the life of your batteries by keeping them in your refrigerator. The cold temperature slows the release of power, or so the reasoning goes.
The issue is that the opposite occurs. Zinc-air batteries and moisture do not mix, and the condensation that develops from the refrigerator leads to corrosion and a greater risk of early failure.
Simply store your batteries at room temperature for the greatest results.
5. Leave the hearing aid battery door open when not in use
When you’re not using your hearing aid, turn it off and open the battery door. This reduces drain and prevents corrosion. But keep in mind, don’t store your hearing aids in the bathroom; temperature changes and moisture are hazardous to the batteries. Your bedroom side-table is probably the best place.
6. Invest in a hearing aid dehumidifier
With a hearing aid dehumidifier, you won’t have to worry about where to store your hearing aids. Each night, place your hearing aids in the dehumidifier to eliminate moisture and to provide a safe place for storage.
7. Remove the batteries if you won’t be using your hearing aids for prolonged periods
If you don’t anticipate using your hearing aids for a while, removing the batteries entirely will help prevent corrosion from collected moisture within the hearing aid.
8. Clean your hands before changing the batteries
Always keep in mind that dirt, grime, and moisture are bad for both the hearing aid batteries and the hearing aids themselves. That’s why it’s crucial to wash your hands before replacing the batteries.
