Stretching 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 decent amount saved through the course of a year.
Luckily, there are actually several things you can do to enhance the life of your hearing aid batteries. If you can convert these eight tips into habits, you should see 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 several years. Unfortunately, like all batteries, power is diminished as each year passes by, so it’s always more effective to buy the newer package.
2. Don’t remove the tab until you’re ready to use the batteries
Hearing aids take a special kind of battery known as a zinc-air battery. Each one has a plastic tab covering tiny holes on the top of the battery. Once the tab is removed, air enters the holes and stimulates the zinc.
The moment 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. Employ the five-minute rule
Immediately after you remove the tab, don’t place the battery into the hearing aid immediately. Rather, wait around 5-7 minutes. This will enable the air to properly activate the battery, expanding its life by as much as 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 cold temperature reduces the release of power, or so the reasoning goes.
The problem is that the exact opposite happens. Zinc-air batteries and moisture do not mix, and the condensation that occurs from the refrigerator leads to corrosion and an enhanced risk of early failure.
Simply store your batteries at room temperature for the best outcome.
5. Leave the hearing aid battery door open when not in use
If you’re not using your hearing aid, turn it off and open the battery door. This minimizes drain and blocks corrosion. But keep in mind, don’t store your hearing aids in the bathroom; temperature changes and dampness are hazardous to the batteries. Your bedroom side table is probably the best place.
6. Purchase a hearing aid dehumidifier
If you have a hearing aid dehumidifier, you won’t have to worry about where to store your hearing aids. Each night, 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 plan on using your hearing aids for a while, removing the batteries entirely will help prevent corrosion from collected moisture within the hearing aid.
8. Clean your hands before changing the batteries
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 crucial to wash your hands before changing the batteries.