Once you’ve found hearing aids that suit your needs, you’ll naturally want to ensure they stay in good working order for as long as possible. Proper maintenance is key to extending the life of your devices and ensuring optimal performance. Below are some practical tips to help keep your hearing aids in excellent condition.
Daily Care for Your Hearing Aids
A few simple habits can make a big difference in keeping your hearing aids functioning properly day in and day out.
Establish a Nightly Cleaning Routine
When you remove your hearing aids each night, make it a habit to wipe them down with a dry cloth. Throughout the day, your devices accumulate moisture, earwax and other debris, which can cause damage if left unattended. Many hearing aid cleaning kits include useful tools like wax removal brushes and picks that make the cleaning process easier and more effective.
Inspect Your Hearing Aids in the Morning
Each morning, take a moment to check the earmold opening for wax buildup or other debris. Blockages can reduce the effectiveness of the microphone and make it harder for you to hear clearly. By inspecting your device regularly, you can catch any potential issues early.
Store Your Devices Safely
Proper storage is crucial for protecting your hearing aids from moisture and accidental damage. Using a drying box is a great option because it eliminates excess moisture overnight, and some even have UV light to kill bacteria. If a drying box isn’t available, be sure to store your hearing aids in a cool, dry place where they’re safe and easy to find.
Preserve Your Batteries
A simple but effective way to prolong battery life is to open the battery compartment when you take your hearing aids out at night. This helps prevent moisture buildup inside the device. For even better results, you can remove the batteries completely and store them in a sealed container, which has been shown to extend their lifespan.
Schedule Regular Checkups
Just like a car needs regular maintenance, your hearing aids should be checked by a professional periodically. Aim to see your audiologist every six to twelve months to ensure everything is functioning correctly. During these visits, they’ll clean your hearing aids thoroughly, make any necessary adjustments, and address any issues that may have arisen.
Occasional Maintenance Tasks
In addition to daily care, there are a few maintenance tasks you should perform on an as-needed basis to keep your hearing aids in top shape.
Replace Batteries Promptly
When your hearing aid battery dies, it’s important to replace it immediately. Using your hearing aid with a weak battery can result in poor performance, so it’s a good idea to keep spare batteries on hand.
Change Earwax Guards Regularly
Earwax guards prevent earwax from entering the device, but they need to be replaced periodically to maintain their effectiveness. If you notice a decrease in sound quality, it may be time to change your earwax guard.
Don’t Delay Repairs
If your hearing aids aren’t working properly, don’t wait to take them in for repairs. Continuing to use a malfunctioning device can lead to further damage and reduce the overall lifespan of your hearing aids.
Consider Upgrading Your Devices
Even with the best care, hearing aids won’t last forever. If you’ve had your devices for more than five years and notice a decline in their performance, it may be time to explore newer options. Your audiologist can help you determine if an upgrade is necessary and guide you in choosing a new device.
If you have any additional questions or want to schedule a checkup, contact Certified Hearing Aid Consultants today to ensure your hearing aids continue to serve you well.
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