Regular cleaning and care helps to keep your hearing aids working well, which will save you time and allow you to continue hearing well in your day to day life. Maintaining your hearing aids doesn’t have to be a difficult task! Read on for tips and tricks on maintaining your hearing aid.
Contents
Key Components
Hearing aids come in different makes and models, but there are certain things most will have in common.
- Microphone: Captures environmental sound
- Amplifier: Increases sound volume
- Speaker: Transfers amplified sound into your ear
- Battery: Powers the device
- Ear Mould or Dome (for behind the ear, or receiver in ear models): Custom-fitted for effective sound delivery
Understanding the different components of your hearing aid can help you maintain them well.
Daily Maintenance Routines
Cleaning Procedures
- Gently wipe hearing aids with a dry, soft cloth daily. If there is stubborn wax or debris on the hearing aid, you may want to use an alcohol wipe.
- Use a hearing aid cleaning brush (usually provided in the box your hearing aids came in) to gently brush out the microphones of the hearing aids.
- If your hearing aid is NOT rechargeable, ensure that you open the battery door when the hearing aids aren’t in use. Check the battery door for moisture or debris and gently wipe out as required.
- If you’re not getting any sound from the hearing aid, it can mean that it is blocked with wax, which stops the sound getting through. Depending on your model of hearing aid, you can clean the wax out by replacing the wax filter, or by using a cleaning spike or brush. Check out the cleaning your hearing aid page for helpful videos on how to clean your hearing aids! https://hearingsense.com.au/cleaning-your-hearing-aid/
Storage and Handling
- Store in a dry place – no bathrooms or laundries! When your not wearing your hearing aids the best place to keep them is in a hearing aid box, or if they are rechargeable hearing aids you can keep them in the charger when not in use (don’t worry, they won’t overcharge!)
- Use desiccant kits or drying chambers when the weather is hot.
- Handle with clean, dry hands.
Replacing Parts and Consumables
Batteries and Power Sources
- Keep spare batteries on hand. Hearing aid batteries have a small sticker on them that you need to peel off to activate them. Avoid keeping the batteries in a hot place like the car, as this can melt the glue on the sticker and cause the battery to stop working.
- For rechargeable hearing aids, charge daily. Whenever they aren’t in your ears, the hearing aids should be in a charger case.
Ear Tips and Tubes
- If you notice any wax on your hearing aids dome or mould, use a tissue or an alcohol wipe to gently wipe it off. If there is any damage to the mould or dome, come and see us and we can fix or replace it for you.
- If your hearing aid has a hollow tube, check it for wax or debris and use a cleaning spike or brush to remove it. Come in to see us if you require a replacement tube!
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Feedback and Whistling
- Check that the hearing aid is fitting correctly.
- Have your ear checked by a professional for wax – if your ear is blocked with wax, this can cause whistling.
- See your hearing professional for a hearing aid clean and service, and to have the settings of the hearing aid checked.
Sound Quality Concerns
- Check battery life.
- Check the microphones are clear of debris.
- Check that the dome, mould, filter or tube is clear of wax build up.
If issues persist, consider visiting your audiologist for a professional adjustment.
Professional Care and Servicing
When to Seek Professional Help
- Persistent feedback or unusual sounds
- Performance drop
- Discomfort or changes in hearing
- At Hearing Sense, we like to see you at least once a year so we can check your hearing levels, as well as the performance of your hearing aids.
Enhancing Longevity Through Safe Usage
Protect hearing aids from extreme conditions and handle them gently.
Avoiding Extremes of Temperature and Moisture
Keep hearing aids away from direct sunlight, heaters, and cold environments. Don’t leave them in the car on hot days.
Moisture is another enemy. Remove hearing aids before showering or swimming. At night, store them in a dry box or a container with a drying agent.
Preparing for Travel and Special Conditions
Include the following items in a small, protective case:
- Extra batteries
- Cleaning tools
- Drying kit
- User manual
By following these guidelines, you can maintain your hearing aids effectively, ensuring their longevity and optimal performance so you can keep hearing well for years to come!