The trick to making hearing aids economical lies in just one component–the batteries. The cost of exchanging them adds up fast and that makes it one of the biggest financial issues when shopping for hearing aids.
Even more worrying, what if the batteries quit at absolutely the worst moment? Even for rechargeable brands, this is a huge issue.
In order to avoid the need to exchange the batteries several times a week, you can do a few things to extend their life. Make the batteries last just a little bit longer by considering these 6 simple ideas.
1. If You’re Looking to Buy a Hearing Aid, be Smart About it
It begins when you are beginning to shop for your hearing aids. Brand quality and hearing aid features are a couple of the factors which dictate battery life. And some batteries are better than others. Cheap components and even cheaper batteries are what defines low quality hearing aids. You’ll be changing those batteries out a lot, so be certain to discuss this with your hearing specialist.
Compare the different models as you shop and, also, consider what features are essential for you. Wireless versions come with batteries that die 2 times as fast as devices with wires. The larger the hearing aid, the longer the battery life, too. These larger devices can potentially go for two weeks without needing 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 impact the power usage and then choose the ones you require.
2. The Hearing Aids Need to be Stored Properly
To lessen drainage of power you will usually need to open the battery door at night. Also, you will want to:
Store your batteries in a cool, dry place. Battery cells are adversely impacted by high temperature and humidity. The most important thing is to keep them away from heat sources like light bulbs. Room temperature is okay.
Also, a dehumidifier is a smart consideration. Both the batteries and the hearing aid itself are protected in this way. Their fragile components are easily damaged by moisture in the air.
3. Be Careful When You Change The Batteries
Make sure your hands are dry and clean. The quality of the battery is adversely impacted by moisture, dirt, and grease. Don’t forget to leave the plastic tab in place until you are ready to use the new batteries, too. The latest hearing aid batteries mix zinc with the air to power on. But you want to be ready before that happens.
It is worth letting 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
It goes without saying, cheap batteries will wear out faster than quality ones. Don’t just think about the brand, though, but what types of hearing aid batteries you’re using and also where you buy them. If you buy in quantity, you can get good batteries for less at some big box stores.
If you buy them online, especially from auction sites such as eBay, be careful. Batteries have an expiration date that they need to be sold by. You shouldn’t use them once they expire.
The easiest way to find batteries at an affordable cost is to ask your hearing care specialist.
5. Be Ready For The Unavoidable
Sooner or later, the batteries are going to die. If you don’t want to find yourself in a difficult situation, it’s better to get an idea when this will happen. To keep track of when the batteries fizzle and need to be replaced, make a schedule. Over time, you’ll get an idea for when you need replacements.
A diary will also assist you in figuring out which brands are best for your hearing devices and what features most affect the battery life.
6. What Are the Alternatives to Batteries
Some modern day hearing aids are rechargeable and that is one of the best features. You could 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 option if you need a lot of features like Bluetooth or wireless.
Hearing aids are a considerable investment but the batteries that make them work are too. A little 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.