Simple Hearing Aid Maintenance Tips for Peak Performance
Keeping your hearing aids in peak condition is essential to ensure they perform well and support your hearing health. With routine maintenance, you can extend the life of your devices and keep them functioning at their best. To help you maintain your hearing aids effectively, here are some simple yet important tips that will protect your investment and support your hearing loss management.
Keep Hearing Aids Clean
One of the easiest ways to maintain your hearing aids is to clean them regularly. Daily exposure to earwax, moisture, and dirt can interfere with how well they work. To clean your devices, gently wipe them with a dry, soft cloth. Be careful not to use water or cleaning products, as moisture can damage the internal components. Special hearing aid cleaning kits are also available, which often include tools designed to clean small crevices. Consistent cleaning ensures optimal performance, making your next hearing health exam smoother, as your aids will be in better shape.
Store Hearing Aids Properly
When you’re not wearing your hearing aids, store them in a dry, safe place. A dedicated hearing aid storage box can help prevent accidental drops or exposure to humidity. It’s also a good idea to keep them away from heat sources like radiators or direct sunlight, as excessive heat can cause damage. For those living in humid climates, a hearing aid dehumidifier can be an excellent investment to protect against moisture-related problems.
Replace Batteries Regularly
The performance of your hearing aids largely depends on a reliable power source. If your hearing aids use disposable batteries, make it a habit to replace them regularly before they drain completely. Weak batteries can cause poor sound quality or intermittent performance. For rechargeable hearing aids, ensure you charge them fully every night. If you notice that the battery life is shorter than expected, it may be time to schedule a hearing health exam to determine if the battery needs replacing or if other adjustments are necessary.
Check for Earwax Build-Up
Earwax build-up can clog your hearing aids and block sound from reaching your ear. Over time, this can reduce their effectiveness and contribute to hearing loss if not addressed. Regularly inspect the openings of your hearing aids and remove any visible earwax with a special hearing aid brush or pick. Many hearing aids come with wax guards, which are designed to protect the device from wax damage. Remember to change these guards as needed, following the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Schedule Routine Maintenance Appointments
While daily care is essential, your hearing aids also benefit from professional maintenance. Scheduling regular appointments with your hearing health professional allows for a more in-depth cleaning and check-up of your devices. They can assess the hearing aid’s performance, make any necessary adjustments, and ensure your hearing loss is being properly managed. A hearing health exam can also help identify if your aids need repairs or if you require updated technology to better support your hearing needs.
Handle Hearing Aids With Care
Hearing aids are delicate devices that need to be handled with care. When inserting or removing your aids, always do so over a soft surface, like a towel or table, in case they are accidentally dropped. Avoid exposing your aids to water, such as while swimming or showering, as moisture can cause severe damage. It’s also a good idea to remove your hearing aids before using products like hair spray or sunscreen, which can interfere with their function.
Update and Upgrade as Needed
Technology in hearing aids is always evolving. It’s important to keep your devices updated, whether by updating the software or upgrading to a newer model. If you find that your aids are no longer meeting your needs, it might be time for an upgrade. Stay in touch with your hearing health professional and schedule regular hearing health exams to ensure you’re using the most effective technology to manage your hearing loss. This will enhance your quality of life and protect your hearing for the future.