Boosting the lifespan of your hearing aid batteries can save you both time and money. If you can get a few additional days out of each battery, that’s a decent amount saved through the course of a year.
Fortunately, there are a handful of things you can do to enhance your hearing aid battery life. If you can convert these eight recommendations into habits, you should see a difference immediately.
The following are eight ways to optimize the life of your hearing aid batteries.
1. Purchase new hearing aid batteries
Hearing aid batteries unopened in the packaging can last for 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 known as a zinc-air battery. Each one has a plastic tab covering small holes on the top of the battery. Once the tab is removed, air enters the holes and stimulates the zinc.
After this occurs, 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 plan on using the battery right away.
3. Utilize the five-minute rule
Once you remove the tab, don’t place the battery into the hearing aid immediately. Rather, wait about 5-7 minutes. This will allow the air to fully activate the battery, expanding its life by as long as three days.
4. Store at room temperature
You may have heard that you can lengthen the life of your batteries by storing them in your refrigerator. The cooler temperature decreases the release of power, or so the thinking 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 a higher 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 being used
When you’re not using your hearing aid, turn it off and open the battery door. This inhibits drain and prevents corrosion. But remember, don’t store your hearing aids in the bathroom; moisture and temperature changes are hazardous to the batteries. Your bedroom side-table is probably the safest place.
6. Purchase a hearing aid dehumidifier
If you have a hearing aid dehumidifier, you won’t have to worry about where to keep your hearing aids. Every night, place your hearing aids in the dehumidifier to expel moisture and to provide a secure place for storage.
7. Take out the batteries if you won’t be using your hearing aids for prolonged periods
If you don’t anticipate using your hearing aids for some time, removing the batteries completely will help prevent corrosion from trapped moisture within the hearing aid.
8. Clean your hands before changing the batteries
You should always keep in mind that dirt, grime, and moisture are harmful for both the hearing aid batteries and the hearing aids themselves. That’s the reason it’s crucial to wash your hands before changing the batteries.