Hearing Aid Care Tips

There’s a buzzing, a whizzing, no sound at all. Like all technological devices, even hearing aids can go haywire sometimes. While issues can seem daunting and overwhelming (hearing aids are big investments, after all), many issues are easily resolved. In fact, there are a handful of common symptoms associated with hearing aids that are malfunctioning; luckily, any can be fixed with some at-home tips and tricks of the sleeve (or hand). Knowing a few of these hacks could save you a costly trip to the audiologist.

If your hearing aid stops functioning properly, try one of these quick fixes before calling the audiologist.

Clean your hearing aids

Hearing aids need regular maintenance and update. Cleaning your hearing aids on a regular, daily basis helps to keep the devices functioning properly and in optimal shape. When cleaning, use a soft cloth and focus on the microphone, shell and receiver. Make sure to remove any built-up earwax or other debris from the port and microphone.

Replace the wax filter

Earwax has the tendency to build up in the ear canal. Because of this, most hearing aids are equipped with earwax guards or filters to help prevent the earwax from building up on the devices. If this isn’t cleaned regularly, the earwax will build up on the wax filter. If the filter is filled with wax, take a wax pick to the filter and start digging away until all excess wax has been removed. 

Replace the batteries

Did your hearing aids stop working overnight? If so, it’s likely that the batteries have died. A multitool will help you remove old batteries. The magnetic end of the multitool will pull old batteries out and can be used to insert new batteries. Make sure to wipe off any moisture on the battery surface before inserting and closing the hearing aid back up. 

Give the battery compartment some air

As previously mentioned, moisture can collect in the battery compartment. Open the battery compartment and wipe the inside and outside down with a soft, dry cloth to ensure no moisture is lingering inside, causing issues with power.

Clean your ears

Sometimes a hearing aid becomes dislodged in the ear when the ear canal has excess wax buildup. When this happens, hearing aids often become dislodged and appear to not work properly. Remove the hearing aids and take the time to gently clean the inside of your ears before returning your hearing aids back into the ear canal.

Check the input settings

Sometimes settings shift or buttons get accidently pressed, creating unknown issues. If you think this is the case and aren’t sure how to reset the input of your hearing aids, contact your audiologist for assistance.