The key to making hearing aids cost effective lies in just one component–the batteries. The cost of replacing them adds up quickly and that makes it one of the biggest financial considerations when buying hearing aids.
Usually the batteries die at the worst time which is even more distressing. 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 every week. Make the batteries last just a little bit longer by thinking about these 6 simple 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 just a couple of the factors which dictate battery life. Not all batteries are created equally, either. Some cheaper hearing products have low quality components that work with cheaper cell batteries. Make sure you talk this over this with your hearing care specialist because you will be changing out the batteries a lot.
Make some comparisons as you shop and, also, consider what features are crucial for you. Wireless versions have batteries that die twice as fast as models with wires. And the larger hearing aids have longer lasting batteries. The smaller devices require new batteries every couple of days, but larger units can go for around two weeks on one set of cells. Understand how all of the features of a hearing aid impact the power consumption and then select the ones you need.
2. The Hearing Aids Need to be Stored Properly
To avoid drainage of power you will normally have to open the battery door at night. Also, you will want to:
A dry, cool place is where you should store the batteries. Batteries are adversely impacted by heat and moisture. 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. Moisture in the air is brutal on their delicate components.
3. Take Precautions When Changing the Batteries
Be certain your hands are dry and clean. Moisture, grease, and dirt all affect battery life. Don’t forget to keep the plastic tab in place until you are ready to use the new batteries, too. In order to power on, current hearing aid batteries mix zinc with air. But you want to be ready before that happens.
After you pull the tab, but before you use them, it’s smart to allow to them sit out for 5 minutes. The battery could be prolonged by days if you do this.
4. Play Around With Different Batteries and Battery Sources
Quality batteries will last longer than cheap ones, obviously. Don’t just think of the brand, though, but what types of hearing aid batteries you’re using and also where you purchase them. If you buy in bulk, 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 sell-by and expiration dates. After they expire, they shouldn’t be used.
Ask your hearing specialist for advice on where to find batteries at affordable prices.
5. Be Ready For The Inevitable
The batteries are going to quit eventually. If you don’t want to find yourself in a difficult situation, it’s helpful to get an idea when this will happen. Make a schedule of when you change the batteries and when they fizzle. You’ll get an idea of when you need to change them over time.
In order to help you figure out what features have the biggest affect on the battery and which brand batteries are best for your device, keep a diary.
6. What Are the Alternatives to Batteries
Some current day hearing aids are rechargeable and that is one of the best features. You could pay a little 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 like Bluetooth or wireless.
Hearing aids are a significant investment but so are the batteries that you need to make them work. A small amount of due diligence goes a long way to lengthening the life of those batteries and saving you cash. Contact a hearing aid retailer for some information on what option is best for you.