When technology quits working properly, that’s when we usually notice it the most. With hearing aids that’s particularly true: Hearing aids are an essential lifeline to the rest of the world for people who wear them not just a piece of technology.
So discovering solutions for a malfunctioning hearing aid, and finding those solutions quickly, is vital for both physiological and emotional reasons. Whether you’ve been using your hearing aids for a week, a year, or a decade, troubleshooting can be a high-stakes, troublesome process. But there are some reasonably easy strategies you can try to get your hearing aid working correctly again.
Preventing Trouble Before it Occurs
Hearing aids are no exception to the rule, like any other piece of tech, they need routine maintenance. Despite the fact that the casing may appear simple and robust, the electronics inside can be extremely sophisticated.
Due to this you have to keep them well maintained. While you’re using your hearing aids, there are a few things you can do that will make taking care of them easier.
Keep Your Hearing Aids Clean
Your ears naturally and normally make a certain amount of wax every day. And, the ear wax is, to a certain extent helpful for your ears. But your hearing aids don’t do as well with it. To help improve the life of your device keep your hearing aids free and clear of wax. In fact, a built-in wax filter comes with most hearing aids that should also be cleaned periodically.
Keep Your Hearing Aids Dry
Electronics and moisture don’t mix. The effectiveness of your hearing aids can be jeopardized, in spite of the best protection technology available, if it is continually exposed to moisture.
This means that you shouldn’t wear your hearing aids in the shower or while in the pool. Also, dry your hearing aids with a towel if they get wet. Don’t use a hair dryer because it can damage them.
Make an Appointment With Professional Cleaners
Hearing aids need specialized cleaning because they are delicate, expensive technology. Even if you’re pretty thorough about your own cleaning routines, there are just some things that can be better accomplished by a specialized cleaner.
That’s why it’s suggested that you take your hearing aids in to be cleaned every 4-6 months.
How to Diagnose Existing Problems
Preventative steps are essential if your hearing aids are currently functioning correctly. You’re most likely more interested in quick fixes if your having problems with your hearing aids not working anymore.
If your hearing aids aren’t working correctly, try one of the following steps:
- Check for loose wiring or corrosion inside the battery compartment. Any significant damage will need to be fixed by a professional but you can attempt to clean away any corrosion you find.
- Check your own ears. Sound from your hearing aid could be blocked by earwax buildup.
- Adjust the volume. There will be either a volume dial on the hearing aid or a remote you can use for this. Try both if you have both features with your hearing aid.
- Even if your batteries are rechargeable they will occasionally need to be changed out.
- Adjust the settings or toggle between programs. How you respond will depend on the model because they’re all different in this regard.
- Inspect your hearing aid for debris or wax accumulate. If you notice any wax buildup or debris, clean them away.
- Turn your hearing aid of then back on. This will fix the issue in some cases.
- Examine your hearing aids for blemishes, cracks or other noticeable signs of damage. Such damage could suggest the hearing aid needs repairs.
It’s likely that you will have to get the device repaired professionally if you want it back to original condition if none of these tips help.
What if Nothing I Try Works?
You will likely have two choices if you’ve tried troubleshooting your hearing aid and it still doesn’t work: either send the hearing aids in for repair or purchase a new set of hearing aids. Which choice works better for you will vary depending on your situation, the age of your hearing aids, and other variables.
Take the time to troubleshoot your hearing aids if they aren’t working properly. If that doesn’t work, you can move on to the next steps, such as a discussion with a hearing specialist to determine a remedy. To find a solution schedule your appointment today.
