We usually only notice technology the most when it quits working. That’s especially true with hearing aids: To most people who wear them, hearing aids are more than just a piece of technology; they’re a vital lifeline to the rest of the world.
So identifying solutions for a malfunctioning hearing aid, and discovering those solutions quickly, is important for both physiological and emotional reasons. Whether you’ve been using your hearing aids for a week, a year, or decades, troubleshooting can be a high-stakes, troublesome process. But if you want to get your hearing aid working correctly again there are some simple measures you can take.
Before Trouble Occurs Take Protective Measures
Hearing aids are no exception to the rule, like any other piece of tech, they require regular maintenance. Even though the casing may appear simple and robust, the electronics inside can be extremely sophisticated.
So this means maintenance is a must. There are some simple ways you can make certain to take care of your hearing aids while you’re using them.
Keeping Your Hearing Aids Clean is a Must
Your ears naturally and normally make a certain amount of wax each day. And, the ear wax is, to a certain degree helpful for your ears. But it’s not so good for your hearing aids. Keeping your hearing aids clear and clean of wax buildup can improve the life of the devices. The fact is that most hearing aids will have a built-in wax filter that should also be cleaned periodically.
Don’t Let Your Hearing Aids Get Wet
Electronics and moisture don’t do well together. The effectiveness of your hearing aids can be compromised, in spite of the best protection technology available, if it is continually exposed to moisture.
This means that you shouldn’t use your hearing aids in the shower or while in the pool. Additionally, if your hearing aids do become wet, dry them with a towel; heat from a hairdryer, as an example, can harm your hearing aids.
Schedule Time With Professional Cleaners
Hearing aids are sensitive (and commonly expensive) technology, and as such, they call for specialized cleaning practices. Even if you’re pretty thorough 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 suggested time between cleanings.
Troubleshooting Problems That Are Already Happening
Even if your hearing aids are presently working, you will still need to take protective steps. But if you’re having problems, if your hearing aids aren’t working properly anymore, you’re probably more interested in some quick fixes.
If your hearing aids aren’t functioning correctly, try one of the following steps:
- Check your own ears. It’s possible that earwax accumulation in your ear canal is interfering with the sound from your hearing aid.
- Change the settings or switch between programs. How you respond will depend on the model because each one is different in this regard.
- Check for corrosion or loose wiring in the battery compartment. Any substantial damage will have to be repaired by a professional but you can try cleaning off any corrosion you find.
- Reboot the device (turn it off and turn it back on). This will correct the issue in certain cases.
- Replace your battery or power source, even if your batteries are rechargeable.
- Adjust the volume. Sometimes you can do this with a remote or manually with the wheel on the hearing aid. Try to do both if you have the option with your hearing aid.
- Examine your hearing aids for visible signs of damage, such as cracks or blemishes. Your hearing aid may need to be fixed if you find any of this type of damage.
- Check your hearing aid for wax or debris build up. If you notice any wax accumulation or debris, clear them away.
If none of these measures address your hearing aid issues, you will probably have to get the device repaired professionally in order to return it to peak operating condition.
What if That Doesn’t Fix My Hearing Aids?
When your hearing aids aren’t working well anymore and troubleshooting has not addressed the problem, you will most likely have two options: either send the hearing aids in for service or purchase a new set of hearing aids. Which option works best for you will depend on your situation, the age of your hearing aids, and other factors.
Take the time to troubleshoot your hearing aids if they aren’t working properly. A discussion with a hearing professional to determine a solution is the next thing you should do if that doesn’t work. Schedule an appointment to find a solution today.