Stretching out the life of your hearing aid batteries could save you both time and money. If you can attain a few additional days out of each battery, that’s a decent amount saved through the course of 12 months.
Luckily, there are actually a number of things you can do to optimize your hearing aid battery life. If you can convert these eight guidelines 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 several years. Unfortunately, like all batteries, power is diminished as each year passes by, so it’s always better to buy the newer package.
2. Don’t remove the tab until you’re ready to use them
Hearing aids use a unique kind of battery called a zinc-air battery. Each one has a plastic tab covering small holes on the top of the battery. Right after the tab is removed, air enters the holes and stimulates the zinc.
As soon as this happens, the battery is live and the power will start draining (reapplying the tab has no effect). That’s why you should pull the tab only if you anticipate using the battery immediately.
3. Use the five-minute rule
After you remove the tab, don’t insert the battery into the hearing aid right away. Instead, wait around 5-7 minutes. This will enable the air to completely activate the battery, extending its life by up to three days.
4. Store at room temperature
You might have heard that you can extend the life of your batteries by keeping them in your refrigerator. The frigid temperature slows the release of power, or so the thinking goes.
The issue is that the exact opposite takes place. Zinc-air batteries and moisture do not mix, and the condensation that occurs from the refrigerator leads to corrosion and a greater risk of premature failure.
Simply store your batteries at room temperature for the best results.
5. Leave the hearing aid battery door open when not being used
If you’re not using your hearing aid, turn it off and open the battery door. This inhibits drain and blocks corrosion. But remember, don’t store your hearing aids in the bathroom; temperature changes and moisture 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 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 plan on using your hearing aids for a while, taking out the batteries entirely will help prevent corrosion from collected 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 important to wash your hands before changing the batteries.