Boosting the lifespan of your hearing aid batteries can save you both time and money. If you can attain a couple of extra days out of each battery, that’s a good amount saved over the course of a year.
Fortunately, there are a handful of things you can do to maximize the life of your hearing aid batteries. If you can convert these eight tips into habits, you should observe a difference immediately.
Below are eight ways to optimize the life of your hearing aid batteries.
1. Buy new hearing aid batteries
Hearing aid batteries unopened in the package can last for several years. Unfortunately, like all batteries, power is reduced as each year passes, so it’s always more advantageous to buy the newer package.
2. Don’t remove the tab until you’re ready to use them
Hearing aids take a special type of battery known as a zinc-air battery. Each one has a plastic tab covering small holes on the top of the battery. Once the tab is removed, air enters the holes and activates the zinc.
As soon as this takes place, the battery is live and the power starts depleting (reapplying the tab has no effect). That’s why you should remove the tab only if you plan on using the battery right away.
3. Implement the five-minute rule
Once removing the tab, don’t place the battery into the hearing aid immediately. Instead, wait about 5-7 minutes. This will allow the air to fully activate the battery, enhancing 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 frigid temperature slows the release of power, or so the reasoning goes.
The problem is that the exact opposite takes place. Zinc-air batteries and moisture do not mix, and the condensation that develops from the refrigerator causes corrosion and an enhanced risk of premature failure.
Simply store your batteries at room temperature for the greatest results.
5. Leave the hearing aid battery door open when not being used
If you’re not using your hearing aid, turn it off and open the battery door. This minimizes drain and blocks corrosion. But keep in mind, don’t store your hearing aids in the bathroom; temperature changes and dampness are hazardous to the batteries. Your bedroom side-table is probably the safest place.
6. Invest in a hearing aid dehumidifier
With a hearing aid dehumidifier, you won’t have to worry about where to keep your hearing aids. Every night, place your hearing aids in the dehumidifier to eliminate moisture and to provide a secure place for storage.
7. Take out the batteries if you won’t be using your hearing aids for prolonged periods
If you don’t anticipate using your hearing aids for some time, removing the batteries completely will help protect against corrosion from trapped moisture within the hearing aid.
8. Wash 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 important to wash your hands before replacing the batteries.
