Increasing the life of your hearing aid batteries could save you both time and money. If you can get a couple of extra days out of each battery, that’s a good amount saved over the course of 12 months.
Luckily, there are actually a number of things you can do to maximize your hearing aid battery life. If you can turn these eight guidelines into habits, you should observe a difference right away.
The following are eight ways to maximize the lifespan 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 more effective 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 called 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 stimulates the zinc.
As soon as 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 anticipate using the battery right away.
3. Implement the five-minute rule
After removing the tab, don’t insert the battery into the hearing aid immediately. Rather, wait about 5-7 minutes. This will enable the air to thoroughly activate the battery, expanding its life by up to three days.
4. Store at room temperature
You might have read that you can extend the life of your batteries by keeping them in your refrigerator. The cooler temperature reduces 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 higher 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 being used
If you’re not using your hearing aid, turn it off and open the battery door. This decreases drain and prevents corrosion. But remember, don’t store your hearing aids in the bathroom; temperature changes and moisture are detrimental 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. At night, place your hearing aids in the dehumidifier to remove moisture and to provide a safe place for storage.
7. Remove 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 some time, taking out the batteries entirely will help prevent corrosion from collected moisture within the hearing aid.
8. Wash your hands before changing the batteries
You should always keep in mind that dirt, grime, and moisture are harmful for both the hearing aid batteries and the hearing aids themselves. That’s why it’s important to wash your hands before replacing the batteries.
