The key to making hearing aids cost effective lies in just one component–the batteries. It is one of the largest financial concerns consumers face when shopping for hearing aids because the costs of replacing them can add up fast.
Even more concerning, what if the batteries die at absolutely the worst moment? This is a big problem even for rechargeable brands.
There are 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 a week. Consider these six easy ways you can make those batteries last just a little bit longer.
1. Be a Smart Hearing Aid Consumer
It starts when you are initially shopping for your hearing aids. Battery life depends on multiple factors such as features on the hearing aids or quality of the brand. Not all batteries are made the same, either. Some less expensive hearing products have cheap components that work with cheaper cell batteries. You’ll be switching those batteries out a lot, so make sure to discuss this with us.
Make some comparisons as you shop and, also, consider what features are essential for you. You’ll find that non-wireless hearing aids have batteries that can last twice as long as the wireless models. The larger the hearing aid, the longer the battery life, too. The smaller devices need new batteries every couple of days, but larger units can go for up to two weeks on one set of cells. Get the features you need but understand how each one affects the power usage of the hearing aids.
2. Take the Time to Store the Hearing Aids Properly
In most cases, the manufacturer will recommend opening the battery door at night to prevent power drainage. Also, you will want to:
Store your batteries in a cool, dry location. Humidity and high temperatures will affect battery cells. Room temperature is fine just keep them out of the sun and away from heat sources include light bulbs.
Consider using a hearing aid dehumidifier, too. It’s one of the best ways to protect both the hearing aids and their batteries. Moisture in the air is hard on their delicate components.
3. Take Precautions When Changing the Batteries
Start with clean, dry hands. Moisture, grease, and dirt all affect battery quality. Make sure to leave the plastic tab in place until you are ready to use the new batteries, too. Modern hearing aid batteries mix zinc with the air to power up. You don’t want that to happen before you are ready.
It is worth letting them sit out for five minutes after you pull the tab but before you install them. Doing this can extend the life of the battery by days.
4. Play Around With Different Batteries and Battery Sources
It goes without saying, cheap batteries will die faster than quality ones. Think about not just the brands, though, but what types of hearing aid batteries you’re using and where you buy them, too. Big box stores might sell good batteries for less per unit if you buy in quantity.
Use caution if you buy them online, especially from an auction site like eBay. Batteries have sell-by and expiration dates. You shouldn’t use them after they expire.
Ask us for advice on where to find batteries at affordable prices.
5. Accept the Inevitable and Be Ready For It
Eventually, the batteries are going to die. It’s better if you get an idea when that will happen, so you don’t end up in a pinch. Keep a schedule of when you replace the batteries and when they fizzle. Over time, you’ll get a feel for when you need replacements.
A diary will also help you figure out which brands are best for your hearing devices and what features most affect the battery life.
6. Consider the Alternatives to Batteries
One of the best things about modern hearing aids is 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. If you need a lot of features like wireless or Bluetooth, then rechargeable batteries are probably the better choice.
Hearing aids are a significant investment but so are the batteries that you need to make them work. A little due diligence goes a long way to extending the life of those batteries and saving you money.
