Increasing the lifespan of your hearing aid batteries could 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.
Luckily, there are a number of things you can do to enhance your hearing aid battery life. If you can convert these eight guidelines into habits, you should notice a difference immediately.
Below are eight ways to optimize the lifespan of your hearing aid batteries.
1. Purchase new hearing aid batteries
Hearing aid batteries unopened in the package can last for years. However, just like all batteries, power is reduced as each year passes by, so it’s always more advantageous to buy the newer package.
2. Don’t remove the tab until you’re ready to use the batteries
Hearing aids take a specialized type of battery referred to as a zinc-air battery. Each one has a plastic tab covering tiny holes on the top of the battery. The moment the tab is removed, air enters the holes and stimulates the zinc.
As soon as this happens, the battery is active and the power will begin depleting (reapplying the tab has no effect). That’s why you should pull the tab only if you intend on using the battery right away.
3. Employ the five-minute rule
Just after you remove the tab, don’t place the battery into the hearing aid right away. Instead, wait approximately 5-7 minutes. This will enable the air to fully activate the battery, expanding its life by up to 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 colder temperature decreases the release of power, or so the thinking goes.
The problem is that the exact opposite occurs. Zinc-air batteries and moisture do not mix, and the condensation that occurs from the refrigerator causes corrosion and a higher 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 in use
When you’re not using your hearing aid, turn it off and open the battery door. This minimizes drain and prevents corrosion. But keep in mind, don’t store your hearing aids in the bathroom; moisture and temperature changes are harmful 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 store your hearing aids. In the evenings, place your hearing aids in the dehumidifier to eliminate 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 protect against 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 bad 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.