There is one component that is the key to making hearing aids economical and that’s the batteries. The cost of replacing them adds up quickly and that makes it one of the biggest financial issues when shopping for hearing aids.
Usually the batteries quit at the worst time which is even more distressing. This is a big issue even for rechargeable brands.
In order to avoid the need to replace the batteries several times each week, you can do a few things to extend their life. Make the batteries last just a little bit longer by thinking about these 6 simple ideas.
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 begins. Battery life is dependent on several factors including features of the hearing aids or quality of the brand. And certain batteries are better than others. Cheap components and even cheaper batteries are what defines low quality hearing aids. Make sure you talk this over with your hearing care specialist because you will be switching out the batteries a lot.
Make some comparisons as you shop and, also, think about what features are crucial for you. You’ll discover that non-wireless hearing aids have batteries that can last twice as long as the wireless models. The bigger the hearing aid, the longer the battery life, too. The smaller devices will need new batteries every couple of days, but larger models can go for up to two weeks on one battery. Get the features you require but understand how each one affects the power usage of the hearing aids.
2. The Hearing Aids Need to be Stored Properly
To avoid power drainage you will normally need to open the battery door at night. Also, you will want to:
Keep your batteries in a cool, dry place. Batteries are adversely affected by heat and humidity. Room temperature is okay just keep them out of the sun and away from heat sources including light bulbs.
Also, a dehumidifier is a smart idea. Both the batteries and the hearing aid itself are protected by doing this. Humidity in the air is brutal on their delicate components.
3. Take Precautions When Changing the Batteries
Start with clean, dry hands. The quality of the battery is adversely affected by moisture, grease, and germs. Until you are ready to use the batteries, be certain to leave the plastic tabs on. In order to power on, modern 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 put them in. Doing this can extend the life of the battery by days.
4. Play Around With Different Batteries and Battery Sources
High quality batteries will last longer than bargain ones, obviously. Don’t only think of 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, particularly from auction sites like eBay, be careful. Batteries have an expiration date that they have to be sold by. After they expire, they shouldn’t be used.
The easiest way to get batteries at an affordable cost is to ask your hearing care specialist.
5. Be Ready For The Unavoidable
Sooner or later, the batteries are going to die. It’s better if you get an idea when that will occur, so you don’t find yourself in a difficult situation. 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.
In order to help you determine what features have the biggest affect 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 may 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 such as wireless or Bluetooth, then rechargeable batteries are likely the best choice.
Hearing aids are a significant investment but the batteries that make them work are too. A little due diligence goes a long way to extending the life of those batteries and saving you money. Contact a hearing aid retailer for some information on what option is best for you.