There is one component that is crucial to making hearing aids cost effective and that’s the batteries. The cost of exchanging them adds up quickly and that makes it one of the largest financial considerations when buying hearing aids.
Even more concerning, what if the batteries die at absolutely the worst moment? This is a huge problem even for rechargeable brands.
so that you can avoid the need to exchange the batteries several times a week, you can do a few things to increase their life. Make the batteries last just a little bit longer by considering these 6 easy ideas.
1. Be a Smart Hearing Aid Consumer
When you first start to shop for your hearing aids is when it all starts. Quality of brand and hearing aid features are a couple of the factors which dictate battery life. Not all batteries are created equally, either. Some less expensive hearing devices have low quality components that work with cheaper cell batteries. Make sure you discuss this with your hearing care specialist because you will be changing out the batteries constantly.
Consider what features you need, and make some comparisons as you shop around. You’ll discover that non-wireless hearing aids have batteries that can last twice as long as the wireless devices. The bigger the hearing aid, the longer the battery life, too. The smaller devices need new batteries every couple of days, but larger models can go for up to two weeks on one set of cells. Understand how all of the features of a hearing aid affect the power expenditure and then select the ones you need.
2. Take the Time to Store the Hearing Aids Properly
To prevent drainage of power you will usually have to open the battery door at night. Also, you will want to:
Store your batteries in a cool, dry place. Batteries are adversely affected by high temperature and moisture. The most important thing is to keep them away from heat sources like light bulbs. Room temperature is fine.
Also, a dehumidifier is a smart idea. Both the batteries and the hearing aid itself are protected in this way. Their fragile components are easily destroyed by moisture in the air.
3. Be Careful When You Change The Batteries
Start with clean, dry hands. The quality of the battery is adversely impacted by moisture, dirt, and grease. Don’t forget to leave the plastic tab on until it’s time to use the new batteries, too. The latest hearing aid batteries mix zinc with the air to power up. You don’t want that to happen before you are ready.
After you pull the tab, but before you use them, it’s good to allow to them sit out for 5 minutes. The battery could be prolonged by days if you do this.
4. Different Battery Sources And Batteries Can be Experimented with
It goes without saying, bargain batteries will wear out faster than high quality ones. Don’t only think of the brand, though, but what types of hearing aid batteries you’re using and also where you buy them. Big box stores might sell good batteries for less per unit if you buy in quantity.
If you buy them online, especially from auction sites such as eBay, use caution. Batteries have sell-by and expiration dates. You shouldn’t use them after they expire.
Consult your hearing specialist for advice on where to get batteries at affordable prices.
5. Be Ready For The Inevitable
Sooner or later, the batteries are going to die. If you don’t want to find yourself in a pinch, it’s helpful to get an idea when this will occur. 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. What Are the Alternatives to Batteries
Some modern day hearing aids are rechargeable and that is one of the best features. You might pay slightly more for those units, but it will be worth it if you can save money on batteries. Rechargeable batteries are likely the best choice if you need a lot of features such as Bluetooth or wireless.
The batteries that make hearing aids work can be as substantial an investment as the hearing aids themselves. Extending the life of your batteries and saving cash begins with some due diligence. Contact a hearing aid retailer for some information on what option is best for you.
