The trick to keeping hearing aids cost effective hinges on just one component–the batteries. The cost of exchanging them adds up quickly and that makes it one of the biggest financial considerations when buying hearing aids.
Even more worrying, what if the batteries die at absolutely the worst moment? Even for rechargeable brands, this is a big problem.
There are things you can do to extend the life of the batteries in hearing aids, so you don’t need to stop and replace them several times every week. 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 shopping for your hearing aids is when it all starts. Battery life depends on multiple factors like features of the hearing aids or brand quality. And certain batteries are better than others. Some less expensive hearing devices have low quality parts that work with cheaper cell batteries. You’ll be changing those batteries out all the time, so make sure to talk it over with your hearing specialist.
Compare the different models as you shop and, also, think about what features are crucial for you. You’ll find that non-wireless hearing aids have batteries that can last two times as long as the wireless devices. And the bigger hearing aids have longer lasting batteries. These larger devices can possibly go for two weeks without requiring new batteries as opposed to the smaller ones which will require battery replacement every couple of days. Get the features you require but understand how each one affects the power drainage of the hearing aids.
2. The Hearing Aids Need to be Stored Properly
In most instances, the manufacturer will suggest opening the battery door at night to prevent power drainage. Also, you will want to:
Store your batteries in a cool, dry location. Humidity and high temperatures will affect battery cells. 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 idea. Both the batteries and the hearing aid itself are protected by doing this. Their fragile components are easily destroyed by moisture in the air.
3. Be Careful When You Change The Batteries
Begin with clean, dry hands. Moisture, grease, and dirt all impact battery quality. Don’t forget to keep the plastic tab in place until it’s time to use the new batteries, too. Modern hearing aid batteries mix zinc with the air to power on. But you want to be ready before that happens.
After you remove the tab, but before you use them, it’s smart to let them sit out for 5 minutes. Doing this can increase the life of the battery by days.
4. Play Around With Different Batteries and Battery Sources
Quality batteries have a longer life than bargain ones, obviously. Consider not just the brands, though, but what types of hearing aid batteries you’re using and also where you purchase them. Big box stores commonly sell good batteries for less per unit if you buy in bulk.
If you purchase them online, especially from auction sites such as eBay, be careful. Batteries have an expiration date that they have to be sold by. You shouldn’t use them after they expire.
The best way to find batteries at an affordable cost is to ask your hearing care specialist.
5. Be Ready For The Unavoidable
Eventually, the batteries are going to quit. If you don’t want to end up in a difficult situation, it’s better to get an idea when this will occur. To keep track of when the batteries fizzle and need to be changed, make a schedule. You’ll get a feel for when you need to change them over time.
A diary will also help you figure out which brands are best for your hearing devices and what features have the biggest effect on the battery life.
6. Consider the Alternatives to Batteries
Some current day hearing aids are rechargeable and that is one of the best features. If you can save money on batteries, it will be worth paying a little more initially. Rechargeable batteries are likely the best choice if you need a lot of features like Bluetooth or wireless.
The batteries that make hearing aids work can be as substantial an investment as the hearing aids themselves. A small amount of 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.
