Choose A Safe Dry Place To Store Your Hearing Aids
Hearing aid batteries can be damaged by exposure to wet, damp areas, so make sure you keep your hearing aids in a safe, dry place when youre not wearing them. The container you keep your devices in should provide protection from extreme temperatures and moisture. If you use the same receptacle, you should also find that its easy to locate your hearing aids when you want to put them in. Ideally, your hearing aids should be kept at room temperature at all times.
Maybe Its Not The Hearing Aid Battery
Changing your batteries is just part of owning hearing aids and keeping them in good working order. However, sometimes we blame them for everythingeven when they arent the culprit. Did you know your hearing aids can sound weak for a variety of reasons? If youve already checked the battery, consider trying this. Check out more advice on how to optimize your hearing aids.
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Can I Put a Rechargeable Battery in My Hearing Aid?
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Page medically reviewed by Kevin St. Clergy, Audiologist, on April 16, 2020.
How Long Do Batteries Last
There are many variables that determine how long your battery will power your hearing aids.
A standard zinc-air battery lasts anywhere from three to 22 days, depending upon the type of hearing aid, the capacity of the battery, and the amount of hearing aid use throughout each day. The smallest hearing aid batteries, used for 12 to 16 hours per day, may need to be changed every three or four days, while the largest hearing aid batteries used for only a couple hours each day may go several weeks without needing to be changed.
To minimize battery drain, turn off the hearing aid when its not in use. Opening the battery door is also an option, and a good way to dry out accumulated moisture. But if the hearing aids wont be used for an extended period of time , removing the battery entirely is the best method.
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Disposable Hearing Aid Battery
If you are a long-time hearing aid user, you are most likely familiar with the disposable batteries that come with a standard hearing aid.
These disposable batteries are zinc-air batteries, and they are commonly utilized in hearing aids, car keys, remotes, and watches. Zinc Air batteries are utilized to cut costs and keep a consistent voltage as they discharge, which is desirable in a battery.
Zinc-air batteries are different from standard batteries in that they are open to the air and actually utilize air to facilitate the reaction necessary for the battery to work. While this reduces weight and cost, the zinc-air battery is not as resilient as a sealed battery. Temperature, humidity, and sitting in a device for too long can significantly reduce the batterys lifespan.
Factors That Influence Battery Life
The size of hearing aid batteries you use can impact how long they last. The size 312 battery offers a good balance between size and battery life, offering a relatively small size with more battery life compared to other options. It also matters how long you wear your hearing aids on a typical day. On average, most studies find that consumers wear their hearing aids roughly 13 hours per day and that most hearing aids last seven days on a single battery. Most people tend to use a receiver-in-canal style of hearing aid which goes behind the ear. If you stream audio to your hearing aids from your phone, TV or other devices, then you can expect your battery life to last fewer hours in total.
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Different Types Of Batteries
There are four main sizes of batteries, each with a specific color-coded package: size 10 , size 13 , size 312 , and size 675 . The battery size you need is typically based on the size and style of your hearing aid.
Standard hearing aid batteries are zinc-air, which are activated when exposed to air, so it is very important to keep them sealed in their packages prior to use. Never open packages to move batteries to a single container keep the packages sealed until the batteries must be used in the hearing aids, or you may end up with a dead battery. Dont buy batteries if the seal is broken.
Hearing Aid Battery Life Survey Results
Weve got a ton of data to share, and some findings which may actually surprise you. Lets take it one step at a time and start with the number of survey submissions. The current count sits at 1012 total survey respondents. Respondents came from a total of 36 countries, with the top 3 countries being the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada. We are leaving the survey open, so we hope for that number to increase in the future.
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In Your Life If You Cant Communicate Your Lost
Hearing loss will almost certainly result in a smaller pay rate according to studies. Who wouldnt want an asset to their career? Newer hearing aids are that asset. You will be able to hear your boss and customers better. No more worrying over whether you missed important information, or whether your hearing aids will quit at the worst time.
Of course, better communication means a higher quality of life, as well. Its not necessary to sit like a wallflower in the middle of conversations any longer. Jump in and connect with the people all around you.
When Should Tubing Bechanged
Over time, the hearing aid tubing can become brittle andhard and may even crack. Additionally, wax and debris may collect in the tubingand earmold. This can greatly affect the sound quality of the hearing aid andcomfort of the hearing aid on the ear. Earmolds should be re-tubed every fourto six months in order for the hearing aids to continue working at optimumperformance.
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Ultimately Outdated Hearing Aids Can Cost You More
One concern when buying new hearing aids is definitely the cost. Wearing outdated hearing aids wont be any less expensive than buying new ones over time. Analog devices require new batteries regularly. It can be costly to replace the batteries once or even twice every day.
Lets not forget the service costs with outdated technology. You can compare it to an old truck. Repairs are costly when your hearing aid is in the shop more than its in your ear.
How To Extend The Life Of A Hearing Aid Battery
While there arent any foolproof ways to extend non-rechargeable battery life, these tips will ensure the power isnt being wasted.
Turn the hearing devices off when not in use and leave the battery compartment door open overnight. Not only will this help keep battery power from being wasted, it will allow any moisture that has built up from the day’s use to evaporate overnight.
To get optimal performance from your batteries, always store them at room temperature. Heat exposure and humid environments such as a bathroom will shorten battery life. Also, batteries shouldnt be carried loose in pockets, a purse or a backpack where they might come into contact with other metal objects like coins or keys that can short-circuit the hearing aid batteries.
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Pros And Cons Of Hearing Aids With Rechargeable Batteries
Contributed by Debbie Clason, staff writer, Healthy HearingJune 24, 20192019-06-24T00:00:00-05:00
Hearing aids these days are powered by either one of two types of batteries: Disposable “button” batteries or rechargeable batteries. For the most part, disposable batteries are still the more common option, though more and more hearing aid manufacturers are making rechargeable hearing aids.
Rechargeable hearing aids , andhearing aids with standard disposablebatteries .Top image courtesy of Oticon Opn S.
With Americans buying nearly 180 tons of batteries each year, it makes sense for each of us to go rechargeable whenever possible. But does that include using rechargeable hearing aids? That depends, says Tim Cross, a hearing instrument specialist and owner of Earzlink Hearing Care in Hillsboro, Ohio. The focus of buying a hearing aid, he says, should be on the benefits of the instrument itself, not its features.
Everything else being equal, if you can get the same benefits with a product that is or isnt rechargeable, rechargeable can be a big advantage. But it isnt something you get because your friend has it.
Battery Life For Hearing Aid Batteries
Non-rechargeable hearing aid batteries can last anywhere from five to 14 days, based on a 16-hour day of wear. This is dependent upon the size of the battery and power needed by the hearing aid. Typically, smaller batteries have shorter battery life than larger ones.
The average lifespan of hearing aid batteries is as follows:
- Size 10 – three to seven days
- Size 312 – three to 10 days
- Size 13 – six to 14 days
- Size 675 – nine to 20 days
If you are experiencing shortened battery life, there may be an issue with the hearing device. In this case, you should consult your user manual or contact your hearing healthcare professional to make sure everything is working properly.
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Hearing Aid Battery Brands
Common manufacturers of non-rechargeable hearing aid batteries include Rayovac and Energizer. However, many hearing aid manufacturers sell batteries wholesale to hearing care professionals, and the batteries may carry the brand name of that hearing aid manufacturer.
Another common practice is private labeling of batteries. This means the hearing care professional may purchase batteries wholesale and have them labeled with the name, address, phone number and logo associated with their office.
Regardless of the branding, most hearing aid batteries are made by trusted companies that produce other types of batteries for all types of electronics.
Where To Purchase Hearing Aid Batteries
Batteries are typically available in mass retail stores, pharmacies, grocery stores, electronics stores and through online retailers.
You might also choose to purchase batteries through a hearing aid center near you. Because hearing care providers go through their stock of batteries quickly, many wearers feel they are getting fresher batteries. Also, if you forget what battery size you need for your particular device, the hearing healthcare professional will ensure you are purchasing the correct one.
Additionally, its worth asking if your hearing health practitioner offers any kind of battery club or discount program. These programs can save you money on your battery purchases and, in some cases, you can request the batteries be sent directly to you saving you a trip to the office.
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A Battery Can Be Drained By Moisture
Did you know that humans are one of the few species that produce moisture through their skin? We do it to cool off. We do it to get rid of excess toxins or sodium in the blood. You might also live in a climate thats humid and moist. The air vent in your hearing aid can get clogged by this additional moisture and it will be less efficient. Moisture can also interact with the chemicals of the battery causing it to drain faster. Here are a few steps you can take to prevent moisture-caused battery drain:
- When you store your hearing aids, open the battery door
- Get a dehumidifier for your hearing aids
- Dont keep your hearing aids in the bathroom, kitchen or other moist conditions
- if your storing them for several days or more, remove the batteries
What Is The Capacity
One of the most glaring differences is that disposable batteries typically carry a higher capacity which essentially means that it will last longer as it discharges. Rechargeable batteries have the disadvantage of capacity but more than makes up for it with their ability to be recharged.
Rechargeable hearing aids can expect to last approximately 24 hours from a full charge. As the batteries get older, this capacity decreases, but 24 hours is more than enough to get you through a standard day after all, how often are you wearing hearing aids while you sleep.
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Remove The Tab When Youre Ready To Use Your New Batteries
Hearing aid batteries have a protective tab, which covers the tiny holes on the top of the battery. As hearing aids use unique batteries, known as zinc-air batteries, its wise to remove the tab at the last moment. This tab acts as a shield, and once it is taken away, air will enter the battery, activating the zinc. The battery will then spring to life and the power will start to drain immediately. By waiting to take the tab off, you can extend the life expectancy of the battery.
When To Change Hearing Aid Batteries
Are your hearing aids working correctly? If not, its not automatically a sign of damage. More often than not, the batteries just ran out, and you need to replace them. This is essential maintenance that you can do at home.
To get in the habit of changing your hearing aid batteries for uninterrupted listening, familiarize yourself with the colour-coded legend for different battery types. Each type of hearing aid typically requires a specific battery size, which is much easier to remember by colour. If this is your first time changing hearing aid batteries, open the battery door and look inside to see what type of batteries you need to get.
You will also know when its time for fresh batteries when your hearing aids start beeping, or they function at reduced power. Dont ignore these signs to avoid disruptions to effective listening and communications. Leaving old and expired batteries inside and unchanged may cause corrosion, so dont prolong the battery change to maintain the optimal lifespan of your hearing aid.
Alternatively, there are now wireless and rechargeable hearing aids that eliminate the need for regular battery changes. Just like your other devices, these need to be charged daily, depending on your use. Once fully charged, these hearing aids provide up to 24 hours of full listening, making them low-maintenance and easy to use, just like any smart device.
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Secrets To Making Your Hearing Aid Batteries Last
How can you make your hearing aid batteries last longer? Here are a few tips and tricks.
Ever notice how hearing aid batteries seem to die just when you need them the most? Hearing aid batteries can drain faster depending on how often you use them, whether you use them for streaming or constant noise or if you live at a high elevation.
In theory, a typical hearing aid battery could get over 100 hours. But in the real world, you can get anywhere from 3-22 days out of a battery depending on whether you use advanced functions that take more energy or follow certain maintenance methods and precautions that impact battery life.
Some of this extra battery drain is completely worth it. When youre celebrating your birthday with the family in a noisy restaurant, you want to be able to hear every word. Isnt that worth an extra 10 cents?
But in other cases, you may be draining your batteries for no reason unaware that its even happening. Its important to have a little background on your hearing aid batteries so you can understand what theyre capable of and what causes them to die a little faster on you.
How Often Should You Get New Hearing Aids
Contributed by Joy Victory, managing editor, Healthy HearingLast updated August 31, 20202020-08-31T00:00:00-05:00
Hearing aids are complex devices, so it’s important to understand when it’s time to start considering buying a new pair.
Hearing aids need replacing every few years, depending on several factors.
Aside from when your hearing aids are beyond repair as determined by a hearing specialist or audiologist, here are some other reasons to consider upgrading your hearing aids:
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Maybe The Batteries Arent Really Low
Some models will give you an alert when the battery starts to get too low. As a general rule, these warnings are giving you a heads up. Theyre not actually saying the battery is dead. On top of this, sometimes an environmental change in humidity or altitude temporarily causes the charge to dip and the low battery alert gets triggered. In order to end the alarm, remove the batteries, and then put them back in. You may be able to get a few more hours or possibly even days out of that battery.
Hearing Aid Style And Battery Life
The chart below shows that hearing aid batteries last the longest in power behind-the-ear hearing aids and the shortest in invisible-in-canal hearing aids. This information is predictable given that smaller hearing aids use smaller batteries, which carry smaller mAh capacity. However, we thought it would be useful for educational reasons to include the chart!
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Hearing Aid Battery Life Drives Satisfaction
Somewhat unsurprisingly, our respondents report being more satisfied with their batteries when they last longer. Based on our data it seems that hearing aid manufacturers should shoot to deliver at least 75 hours of battery life. Otherwise they will face unhappy customers!
Thats all we have for now. Please leave your feedback in the comments section below, and let us know if you have any questions!
Sizes Of Disposable Hearing Aid Batteries
Hearing aids come in many different sizes and styles and with different power needs. Larger hearing aids require larger batteries. Additionally, hearing aids for people with severe or profound hearing loss typically require more power and larger batteries.
There are five sizes of hearing aid batteries available on the market. The sizes from smallest to largest are: 5, 10, 312, 13 and 675. Size 5 hearing aid batteries are rarely used. The four most common hearing aid battery sizes are all smaller than the diameter of a dime:
- Size 10 – 5.8 mm wide by 3.6 mm high
- Size 312 – 7.9 mm wide by 3.6 mm high
- Size 13 – 7.9 mm wide by 5.4 mm high
- Size 675 – 11.6 mm wide by 5.4 mm high
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