When technology stops working correctly, that’s when we tend to notice it most. That’s particularly true with hearing aids: Hearing aids are a vital lifeline to the rest of the world for people who wear them not just a piece of technology.
So finding solutions for a malfunctioning hearing aid, and discovering those solutions quickly, is important for both physiological and emotional reasons. Troubleshooting can be a difficult, risky process whether you’ve been wearing them for a week, a year, or decades. But there are some reasonably easy strategies you can try to get your hearing aid working correctly again.
Avoiding Problems Before They Occurs
Hearing aids are no exception to the rule, like any other piece of tech, they need regular maintenance. Although the casing might look simple and robust, the electronics inside can be extremely sophisticated.
As a result of this you need to keep them well maintained. There are a few easy ways you can make certain to take care of your hearing aids as you’re using them.
Keep Your Hearing Aids Clean
Every day, a certain amount of wax is normally and naturally created by your ears. And, the ear wax is, to a certain degree good for your ears. But your hearing aids don’t do as well with it. To help improve the longevity of your device keep your hearing aids free and clear of wax. The fact is that a built-in wax filter comes with most hearing aids that should also be cleaned periodically.
Keep Your Hearing Aids Dry
Electronics and moisture don’t do well together. And despite the best protection technology can produce, repeated subjection to moisture can eventually wear out the internal electronics of your hearing aids, reducing their effectiveness.
This means that you shouldn’t wear your hearing aids in the shower or while in the pool. Also, if your hearing aids do become wet, dry them with a towel; heat from a hairdryer, for example, can harm your hearing aids.
Schedule Time With Professional Cleaners
Hearing aids require specialized cleaning because they are delicate, expensive technology. Even if you’re pretty rigorous about your own cleaning routines, there are just some things that can be better achieved by a specialized cleaner.
Every 4-6 months is the recommended time between cleanings.
Troubleshooting Difficulties That Are Already Occurring
Protective steps are essential if your hearing aids are currently functioning properly. But if you’re experiencing issues, if your hearing aids aren’t working properly anymore, you’re most likely more interested in some quick fixes.
If your hearing aids aren’t functioning properly, try one of the following steps:
- Even if your batteries are rechargeable they will occasionally need to be changed out.
- Check your hearing aid for wax or debris build up. If you notice any wax buildup or debris, clear them away.
- Inspect your hearing aids for blemishes, cracks or other obvious signs of damage. Your hearing aid might need to be fixed if you find any of this kind of damage.
- Turn your hearing aid of then back on. In some cases, this will fix the issue.
- Switch between programs or change the settings. Many hearing aids are different in this regard, so your course of action will depend on the model you have.
- Examine your own ears. It’s possible that earwax buildup in your ear canal is interfering with the sound from your hearing aid.
- Adjust the volume. There will be either a volume wheel on the hearing aid or a remote you can use to do this. If your hearing aid has both options, try both ways.
- Inspect the battery compartment. Look for corrosion or loose wiring. If you find corrosion, you can attempt to carefully clean it away, but significant damage will need to be repaired professionally.
If none of these measures address your hearing aid problems, it’s likely that you’ll have to have the device fixed professionally in order to return it to peak functional condition.
What if That Doesn’t Fix My Hearing Aids?
When your hearing aids aren’t working well anymore and troubleshooting has not resolved the problem, you will most likely have two choices: either send the hearing aids in for service or purchase a new set of hearing aids. Which option works better for you will vary depending on your situation, the age of your hearing aids, and other variables.
Take the time to troubleshoot your hearing aids if they aren’t working correctly. A discussion with your hearing professional to find a solution is the next step if that doesn’t work. To find a solution make your appointment today.
