The trick to making hearing aids cost effective lies in just one component–the batteries. The cost of exchanging them adds up quickly and that makes it one of the biggest financial issues when shopping for hearing aids.
Usually the batteries die at the worst time which is even more troubling. This is a huge problem even for rechargeable brands.
so that you can avoid the need to replace the batteries several times each week, you can do a few things to extend their life. Make the batteries last just a little bit longer by considering 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. Battery life is dependent on several factors such as features on the hearing aids or brand quality. And some batteries are better than others. Some less expensive hearing products have low quality parts that work with cheaper cell batteries. You’ll be switching those batteries out all the time, so make sure to talk it over with your hearing specialist.
Make some comparisons as you shop and, also, consider what features are crucial for you. Wireless models come with batteries that need replacing 2 times as fast as devices with wires. And the bigger hearing aids have longer lasting batteries. These larger devices can potentially go for a couple of weeks without requiring new batteries as opposed to the smaller ones which will need battery replacement every two days. Recognize how all of the features of a hearing aid impact the power usage and then select the ones you require.
2. Take the Time to Store the Hearing Aids Properly
To avoid drainage of power you will normally need to open the battery door at night. Also, you will want to:
A dry, cool place is where you should store the batteries. Humidity and heat will impact battery cells. Room temperature is fine just keep them out of the sun and away from heat sources include light bulbs.
Consider using a hearing aid dehumidifier, too. Both the batteries and the hearing aid itself are protected in this way. Humidity in the air is hard on their delicate components.
3. Take Precautions When Changing the Batteries
Begin with clean, dry hands. The quality of the battery is negatively impacted by moisture, grease, and germs. 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. You don’t need that to happen before you are ready.
After you remove the tab, but before you use them, it’s smart to let them sit out for 5 minutes. Doing this can increase the life of the battery by days.
4. Play Around With Different Batteries and Battery Sources
High quality batteries will last longer than cheap ones, obviously. Don’t only 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.
Be careful if you buy them online, particularly from an auction site like eBay. Batteries have sell-by and expiration dates. You shouldn’t use them once they expire.
Consult your hearing specialist for advice on where to find batteries at affordable prices.
5. Be Ready For The Inevitable
The batteries are going to die sooner or later. It’s better if you get an idea when that will happen, so you don’t find yourself in a difficult situation. Keep a schedule of when you replace the batteries and when they fizzle. Over time, you’ll get an idea for when you need replacements.
So you can determine what features have the biggest effect on the battery and which brand batteries are appropriate for your device, keep a diary.
6. Consider the Alternatives to Batteries
One of the greatest things about newer hearing aids is that some are rechargeable. You might 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 such as Bluetooth or wireless.
The batteries that make hearing aids work can be as substantial an investment as the hearing aids themselves. A small amount of due diligence goes a long way to extending the life of those batteries and saving you money. To find out what your best option for you is, schedule an appointment with a hearing aid specialist.