Increasing the life of your hearing aid batteries can save you both time and money. If you can get a couple of extra days out of each battery, that’s a good amount saved during the course of 12 months.
Fortunately, there are several things you can do to enhance your hearing aid battery life. If you can convert these eight recommendations into habits, you should observe a difference immediately.
The following are eight ways to optimize the life of your hearing aid batteries.
1. Buy new hearing aid batteries
Hearing aid batteries unopened in the package can last for several years. However, like all batteries, power is reduced as each year passes, so it’s always more advantageous to purchase the newer package.
2. Don’t remove the tab until you’re ready to use them
Hearing aids use a special type of battery referred to as a zinc-air battery. Each one has a plastic tab covering small holes on the top of the battery. After the tab is removed, air enters the holes and activates the zinc.
After this happens, the battery is active and the power starts draining (reapplying the tab has no effect). That’s why you should pull the tab only if you anticipate using the battery immediately.
3. Employ the five-minute rule
After removing the tab, don’t insert the battery into the hearing aid immediately. Rather, wait about 5-7 minutes. This will enable the air to completely activate the battery, increasing its life by up to three days.
4. Store at room temperature
You may have heard that you can extend the life of your batteries by keeping them in your refrigerator. The colder temperature slows the release of power, or so the reasoning goes.
The issue is that the exact opposite occurs. Zinc-air batteries and moisture do not mix, and the condensation that develops from the refrigerator causes corrosion and an elevated risk of early failure.
Simply store your batteries at room temperature for the best results.
5. Leave the hearing aid battery door open when not being used
When you’re not using your hearing aid, turn it off and open the battery door. This minimizes drain and prevents corrosion. But remember, don’t store your hearing aids in the bathroom; temperature changes and moisture are detrimental to the batteries. Your bedroom side table is probably the best place.
6. Purchase a hearing aid dehumidifier
With a hearing aid dehumidifier, you won’t have to worry about where to keep your hearing aids. Each night, place 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 intend on using your hearing aids for a while, taking out the batteries completely will help prevent corrosion from trapped moisture within the hearing aid.
8. Wash 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 replacing the batteries.
