Boosting the lifespan of your hearing aid batteries can save you both time and money. If you can get a few extra days out of each battery, that’s a good amount saved through the course of 12 months.
Luckily, there are actually several things you can do to optimize your hearing aid battery life. If you can convert these eight guidelines into habits, you should see a difference right away.
Below are eight ways to optimize the lifespan of your hearing aid batteries.
1. Buy new hearing aid batteries
Hearing aid batteries unopened in the package can last for several years. However, just like all batteries, power is reduced as each year passes, so it’s always more effective to buy the newer package.
2. Don’t remove the tab until you’re ready to use them
Hearing aids use a unique type of battery known as a zinc-air battery. Each one has a plastic tab covering small holes on the top of the battery. Once the tab is removed, air enters the holes and activates the zinc.
After this takes place, the battery is live and the power will begin draining (reapplying the tab has no effect). That’s why you should remove the tab only if you anticipate using the battery right away.
3. Implement the five-minute rule
Once you remove the tab, don’t insert the battery into the hearing aid immediately. Rather, wait about 5-7 minutes. This will allow the air to completely activate the battery, enhancing its life by up to three days.
4. Store at room temperature
You might have read that you can prolong the life of your batteries by keeping them in your refrigerator. The frigid temperature slows the release of power, or so the reasoning goes.
The problem is that the opposite happens. Zinc-air batteries and moisture do not mix, and the condensation that develops from the refrigerator leads to corrosion and an elevated risk of early failure.
Simply store your batteries at room temperature for the greatest results.
5. Leave the hearing aid battery door open when not being used
When you’re not using your hearing aid, turn it off and open the battery door. This inhibits drain and blocks corrosion. But remember, don’t store your hearing aids in the bathroom; moisture and temperature changes are hazardous to the batteries. Your bedroom side table is probably the safest 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. In the evenings, put your hearing aids in the dehumidifier to expel moisture and to provide a secure place for storage.
7. Remove the batteries if you won’t be using your hearing aids for prolonged periods
If you don’t anticipate using your hearing aids for a while, taking out the batteries completely will help protect against corrosion from collected moisture within the hearing aid.
8. Clean your hands before changing the batteries
You should always remember that dirt, grime, and moisture are harmful for both the hearing aid batteries and the hearing aids themselves. That’s why it’s crucial to wash your hands before changing the batteries.