There is one component that is crucial to keeping hearing aids cost effective and that’s the batteries. The cost of exchanging them adds up fast and that makes it one of the largest financial considerations when buying hearing aids.
Even more worrying, what if the batteries die at absolutely the worst moment? This is a huge problem even for rechargeable brands.
There are some things you can do to extend the life of the batteries in hearing aids, so you don’t have to stop and replace them several times every week. 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 starts when you are beginning to shop for your hearing aids. Battery life is dependent on multiple factors including features on the hearing aids or brand quality. And some batteries are better than others. Cheap components and even cheaper batteries are what defines low quality hearing aids. Be sure to talk this over this with us because you will be switching out the batteries a lot.
Compare the different models as you shop and, also, think about what features are crucial for you. You’ll find that non-wireless hearing aids come with batteries that can last twice as long as the wireless devices. And the larger hearing aids have longer lasting batteries. The smaller devices need new batteries every couple of days, but larger models can go for around two weeks on one battery. Recognize how all of the features of a hearing aid affect the power usage and then choose the ones you need.
2. The Hearing Aids Need to be Stored Properly
To prevent drainage of power you will normally need to open the battery door at night. Also, you will want to:
Keep your batteries in a cool, dry location. Battery cells are adversely affected by high temperature and moisture. The most important thing is to keep them away from heat sources such as light bulbs. Room temperature is fine.
Also, a dehumidifier is a smart consideration. It’s one of the best ways to preserve both the hearing aids and their batteries. Their delicate components are easily destroyed by moisture in the air.
3. Take Precautions When Changing the Batteries
Be certain your hands are dry and clean. Humidity, dirt, and grease all impact battery quality. Until it’s time to use the batteries, be sure to keep the plastic tabs in place. The latest hearing aid batteries mix zinc with the air to power on. You don’t need that to happen before you are ready.
After you pull the tab, but before you put them in, it’s smart to allow to them sit out for 5 minutes. The battery could be extended by days if you do this.
4. Play Around With Different Batteries and Battery Sources
It goes without saying, bargain batteries will wear out faster than high quality ones. Think about not only the brands, though, but what types of hearing aid batteries you’re using and where you purchase them, as well. If you buy in quantity, you can get good batteries for less at some big box stores.
Be careful if you shop online, particularly from an auction site like eBay. Batteries have sell-by and expiration dates. Once they expire, they shouldn’t be used.
The easiest way to get batteries at an affordable price is to ask us.
5. Accept The Inevitable And be Ready For it
Eventually, the batteries are going to quit. If you don’t want to end up in a difficult situation, it’s helpful to get an idea when this will happen. Keep a schedule of when you change the batteries and when they fizzle. Over time, you’ll get a feel for when you need replacements.
In order to help you 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
One of the greatest things about modern hearing aids is that some are rechargeable. You might pay a little more for those units, but it will be worth it if you can save money on batteries. Rechargeable batteries are probably the best choice if you need a lot of features such as Bluetooth or wireless.
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 extending the life of those batteries and saving you cash. Contact a hearing aid retailer for some information on what option is best for you.