Maico Audiological Services
Extending the life of your hearing aid batteries can save you both time and money. If you can attain a few extra days out of each battery, that’s a decent amount saved through the course of 12 months.
Luckily, there are several things you can do to optimize the life of your hearing aid batteries. If you can convert these eight guidelines into habits, you should observe a difference right away.
The following are eight ways to optimize the life of your hearing aid batteries.
1. Purchase new hearing aid batteries
Hearing aid batteries unopened in the packaging can last for years. Unfortunately, like all batteries, power is reduced as each year passes by, so it’s always better to purchase the newer package.
2. Don’t remove the tab until you’re ready to use them
Hearing aids take a specialized kind of battery known as a zinc-air battery. Each one has a plastic tab covering tiny holes on the top of the battery. The moment the tab is removed, air enters the holes and activates the zinc.
Once this takes place, the battery is active and the power starts draining (reapplying the tab has no effect). That’s why you should remove the tab only if you intend on using the battery immediately.
3. Employ the five-minute rule
After removing the tab, don’t insert the battery into the hearing aid immediately. Instead, wait around 5-7 minutes. This will permit the air to thoroughly activate the battery, expanding its life by up to three days.
4. Store at room temperature
You might have heard that you can extend the life of your batteries by storing them in your refrigerator. The colder temperature slows the discharge of power, or so the reasoning goes.
The issue is that the exact opposite occurs. Zinc-air batteries and moisture do not mix, and the condensation that occurs from the refrigerator causes corrosion and a greater risk of premature failure.
Simply store your batteries at room temperature for the greatest outcome.
5. Leave the hearing aid battery door open when not in use
When you’re not using your hearing aid, turn it off and open the battery door. This minimizes drain and prevents corrosion. But keep in mind, don’t store your hearing aids in the bathroom; temperature changes and dampness are detrimental to the batteries. Your bedroom side-table is probably the best place.
6. Invest in a hearing aid dehumidifier
With a hearing aid dehumidifier, you won’t have to worry about where to keep your hearing aids. At night, place your hearing aids in the dehumidifier to expel moisture and to provide a safe place for storage.
7. Take out the batteries if you won’t be using your hearing aids for extended periods
If you don’t plan on using your hearing aids for a while, removing the batteries completely will help prevent corrosion from collected moisture within the hearing aid.
8. Clean your hands before changing the batteries
Always remember that dirt, grime, and moisture are bad for both the hearing aid batteries and the hearing aids themselves. That’s the reason it’s crucial to wash your hands before changing the batteries.