The trick to keeping hearing aids cost effective hinges on just one component–the batteries. It is one of the largest financial concerns consumers face when buying hearing aids because the costs of replacing them can add up fast.
Usually the batteries quit at the worst time which is even more troubling. Even for rechargeable brands, this is a big problem.
In order to avoid the need to exchange the batteries several times each week, you can do several things to increase 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
It begins when you are initially shopping for your hearing aids. Brand quality and hearing aid features are a couple of the factors which dictate battery life. And some batteries are higher quality than others. Cheap components and even cheaper batteries are what defines low quality hearing aids. You’ll be switching those batteries out all the time, so be certain to talk it over with your hearing specialist.
Compare the different models as you shop and, also, consider what features are crucial for you. Wireless versions have batteries that die 2 times as fast as models with wires. The bigger the hearing aid, the longer the battery life, too. These larger devices can possibly go for a couple of weeks without requiring new batteries as opposed to the smaller ones which will need battery replacement every two days. Understand how all of the features of a hearing aid affect the power consumption and then choose the ones you need.
2. Take the Time to Store the Hearing Aids Properly
In most situations, the manufacturer will suggest opening the battery door at night to prevent power drainage. Also, you will want to:
A dry, cool location is where you should keep the batteries. Humidity and high temperatures will impact battery cells. The most important thing is to keep them away from heat sources such as light bulbs. Room temperature is okay.
Also, a dehumidifier is a smart idea. Both the batteries and the hearing aid itself are protected in this way. Moisture in the air is hard on their fragile components.
3. Take Precautions When Changing the Batteries
Start with clean, dry hands. The life of the battery is adversely impacted by dampness, grease, and germs. Until it’s time to use the batteries, be sure to keep the plastic tabs in place. Modern hearing aid batteries mix zinc with the air to power up. But you want to be ready before that occurs.
It is good to let them sit out for five minutes after you pull the tab but before you install them. The battery could be prolonged by days if you do this.
4. Different Battery Sources And Batteries Can be Experimented with
High quality batteries will last longer than bargain ones, obviously. Don’t only think about the brand, though, but what types of hearing aid batteries you’re using and also where you purchase them. If you buy in bulk, you can get good batteries for less at some big box stores.
Use caution if you shop online, especially from an auction site such as eBay. Batteries have sell-by and expiration dates. After they expire, they shouldn’t be used.
The best way to find batteries at an affordable price is to ask your hearing care specialist.
5. Accept The Unavoidable And be Ready For it
The batteries are going to quit eventually. 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.
So you can figure out what features have the biggest effect 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 best things about newer hearing aids is that some are rechargeable. You might pay slightly more for those units, but it will be worth it if you can save money on batteries. If you need a lot of features like wireless or Bluetooth, then rechargeable batteries are likely the best option.
The batteries that make hearing aids run can be as significant an investment as the hearing aids are. A small amount of due diligence goes a long way to lengthening the life of those batteries and saving you cash. To find out what your best option for you is, schedule an appointment with a hearing aid specialist.
