The trick to making hearing aids cost effective lies in just one component–the batteries. The cost of exchanging them adds up fast and that makes it one of the largest financial considerations when shopping for hearing aids.
Usually the batteries die at the worst time which is even more troubling. Even for rechargeable brands, this is a big problem.
so that you can 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 thinking about these 6 simple ideas.
1. Be a Smart Hearing Aid Consumer
It begins when you are beginning to shop for your hearing aids. Brand quality and hearing aid features are just a couple of the factors which dictate battery life. Not all batteries are created equally, either. Cheap components and even cheaper batteries are what defines low quality hearing aids. You’ll be changing those batteries out all the time, so be certain to discuss this with your hearing specialist.
Compare the different models as you shop and, also, think about what features are crucial for you. Wireless versions come with batteries that die twice as fast as devices with wires. The larger the hearing aid, the longer the battery will last, too. The smaller devices need new batteries every two days, but larger models can go for around two weeks on one battery. Recognize how all of the features of a hearing aid impact the power consumption and then select the ones you require.
2. The Hearing Aids Need to be Stored Properly
In most cases, the manufacturer will recommend opening the battery door at night to avoid power drainage. Also, you will want to:
A dry, cool location is where you should keep the batteries. Batteries are adversely impacted by heat and humidity. The main thing is to keep them away from heat sources such as light bulbs. Room temperature is fine.
Also, a dehumidifier is a smart consideration. Both the batteries and the hearing aid itself are protected in this way. Humidity in the air is hard on their fragile components.
3. Be Careful When You Change The Batteries
Be certain your hands are dry and clean. Moisture, grease, and dirt all impact battery life. Don’t forget to leave 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. You don’t want that to happen before you are ready.
After you pull the tab, but before you use them, it’s good to let them sit out for 5 minutes. Doing this can increase the life of the battery by days.
4. Different Battery Sources And Batteries Can be Experimented with
High quality batteries have a longer life than cheap ones, obviously. Think about not only the brands, though, but what types of hearing aid batteries you’re using and also where you buy them. If you buy in bulk, you can get good batteries for less at some big box stores.
If you purchase them online, particularly from auction sites such as eBay, use caution. Batteries have sell-by and expiration dates. Once they expire, they shouldn’t be used.
The best way to find batteries at an affordable price is to ask your hearing care specialist.
5. Accept The Unavoidable And be Ready For it
The batteries are going to die sooner or later. If you don’t want to end up in a pinch, it’s better to get an idea when this will happen. To keep track of when the batteries fizzle and need to be changed, make a schedule. Over time, you’ll get a feel for when you need replacements.
In order to help you determine what features have the biggest effect on the battery and which brand batteries are best for your device, keep a diary.
6. What Are the Alternatives to Batteries
Some modern day hearing aids are rechargeable and that is one of the best features. You may pay slightly more for those units, but it will be worth it if you can save money on batteries. If you need a lot of features such as wireless or Bluetooth, then rechargeable batteries are likely the best choice.
The batteries that make hearing aids work can be as substantial an investment as the hearing aids are. Lengthening the life of your batteries and saving cash begins with some due diligence. Contact a hearing aid retailer for some information on what option is best for you.
