There is one component that is crucial to making hearing aids cost effective and that is the batteries. The cost of replacing them adds up quickly and that makes it one of the largest financial issues when buying hearing aids.
Usually the batteries die at the worst time which is even more troubling. This is a huge issue even for rechargeable brands.
There are things you can do to increase the life of the batteries in hearing aids, so you don’t need to stop and replace them several times a week. Make the batteries last just a little bit longer by considering these 6 easy ideas.
1. If You’re Looking to Buy a Hearing Aid, be Smart About it
When you first start to shop for your hearing aids is when it all starts. Battery life is dependent on several factors such as features of the hearing aids or brand quality. And certain batteries are higher quality than others. Some cheaper hearing products have low quality parts that work with cheaper cell batteries. Be sure to discuss this with your hearing care specialist because you will be changing out the batteries constantly.
Compare the different models as you shop and, also, consider what features are crucial for you. Wireless models come with batteries that die twice as fast as devices with wires. And the larger hearing aids have longer lasting batteries. The smaller devices require new batteries every two days, but larger models can go for around two weeks on one set of cells. 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
To avoid drainage of power you will usually have to open the battery door at night. Also, you will want to:
Keep your batteries in a cool, dry location. Batteries are adversely impacted by heat and moisture. 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 consideration. It’s one of the best ways to protect both the hearing aids and their batteries. Humidity in the air is hard on their delicate components.
3. Take Precautions When Changing the Batteries
Be certain your hands are dry and clean. The life of the battery is adversely affected by moisture, grease, and germs. Don’t forget to keep the plastic tab on until it’s time to use the new batteries, too. In order to power on, current hearing aid batteries mix zinc with air. You don’t want that to happen before you are ready.
It is worth letting them sit out for five minutes after you remove the tab but before you install them. The battery could be extended by days if you do this.
4. Play Around With Different Batteries and Battery Sources
Needless to say, bargain batteries will wear out faster than high quality ones. Don’t just 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.
Be careful if you shop online, especially from an auction site such as eBay. Batteries have an expiration date that they have to be sold by. You shouldn’t use them once they expire.
The best way to get batteries at an affordable cost is to ask your hearing care specialist.
5. Accept The Inevitable And be Ready For it
The batteries are going to quit eventually. It’s beneficial 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 determine what features have the biggest effect on the battery and which brand batteries are appropriate for your device, keep a diary.
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 up front. If you need a lot of features like wireless or Bluetooth, then rechargeable batteries are likely the best option.
Hearing aids are a considerable investment but the batteries that make them work are too. A small amount of 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.