Boosting the life of your hearing aid batteries can save you both time and money. If you can get a few extra days out of each battery, that’s a decent amount saved over the course of 12 months.
Luckily, there are actually a number of things you can do to enhance your hearing aid battery life. If you can turn these eight guidelines into habits, you should observe a difference immediately.
The following are eight ways to maximize the life of your hearing aid batteries.
1. Purchase new hearing aid batteries
Hearing aid batteries unopened in the package can last for years. However, like all batteries, power is reduced as each year passes, so it’s always more effective to purchase the newer package.
2. Don’t remove the tab until you’re ready to use the batteries
Hearing aids use a unique type of battery called a zinc-air battery. Each one has a plastic tab covering small holes on the top of the battery. The moment the tab is removed, air enters the holes and activates the zinc.
As soon as this occurs, the battery is active and the power will start depleting (reapplying the tab has no effect). That’s why you should remove the tab only if you anticipate using the battery right away.
3. Use the five-minute rule
Immediately after removing the tab, don’t place the battery into the hearing aid immediately. Rather, wait about 5-7 minutes. This will allow the air to thoroughly activate the battery, expanding its life by as long as 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 cooler temperature decreases the release of power, or so the thinking goes.
The problem is that the opposite occurs. Zinc-air batteries and moisture do not mix, and the condensation that develops from the refrigerator leads to 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 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 harmful 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 store your hearing aids. At night, put 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 extended periods
If you don’t intend on using your hearing aids for some time, taking out the batteries entirely will help protect against corrosion from trapped moisture within the hearing aid.
8. Wash your hands before changing the batteries
Always remember that dirt, grime, and moisture are bad for both the hearing aid batteries and the hearing aids themselves. That’s the reason it’s crucial to wash your hands before replacing the batteries.