Hearing aids can change your life for the better, but only if you’re able to keep them powered up. That’s why it’s important not only to make sure you always have extra hearing aid batteries on hand but that you know how to make them last as long as possible.
Having Extra Batteries With You
The last thing you want is to be at your granddaughter’s dance recital or a family dinner out at Cook’s American Grill and have your hearing aid batteries die. That’s why it’s always a good idea to carry a few extra in your purse or pockets. You can even keep a few in your desk at work as well, just to make sure you never go without a way to power your device.
Average Hearing Aid Battery Lifespan
Disposable hearing aid batteries usually last between 3-7 days, depending on factors like size, type of battery and hours used. However, the way you take care of the battery can increase (or decrease) its lifespan as well.
Ways to Extend Hearing Aid Battery Lifespan
- Store in a cool, dry place. Keep your batteries in a room-temperature environment away from any excess heat or moisture. Do not put them in the refrigerator! Despite the rumors, keeping your batteries cold does not make them last longer and actually causes damage instead.
- Don’t open the battery package until you plan on using them. This ensures they won’t come into contact with metal objects like keys if they are loose in your purse or pocket.
- Let the battery sit out after removing plastic tabs. Zinc hearing aid batteries are air activated. After removing the sticky tab on the back of the battery, let them sit out for five minutes before inserting them into your hearing aid. This can extend your battery’s life by hours and even days!
- Keep the battery compartment open when hearing aids aren’t in use. When not using your hearing aids, turn them off and keep them somewhere safe and dry. Also, be sure to leave the battery door open. This saves battery life and helps to remove excess moisture from your battery and prevent corrosion.
Ask Your Audiologist About Any Issues
Hearing aid users have reported several challenges related to changing their hearing aid batteries, including “limited information on hearing aid batteries, physical/sensory challenges to the act, and the social impact of having to change hearing aid batteries.”
If you are struggling with any aspect of changing or using your hearing aid batteries, or have any other hearing aid-related needs, call Topeka Ear Nose & Throat today to schedule an appointment or speak with a specialist.