Boosting the life of your hearing aid batteries could save you both time and money. If you can attain a couple of extra days out of each battery, that’s a good amount saved over the course of 12 months.
Luckily, there are actually several things you can do to optimize your hearing aid battery life. If you can turn these eight guidelines into habits, you should notice a difference right away.
Below are eight ways to maximize the lifespan of your hearing aid batteries.
1. Purchase new hearing aid batteries
Hearing aid batteries unopened in the packaging can last for many years. Unfortunately, like all batteries, power is diminished as each year passes by, so it’s always more effective 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 known as a zinc-air battery. Each one has a plastic tab covering tiny holes on the top of the battery. As soon as the tab is removed, air enters the holes and activates the zinc.
Right after this takes place, the battery is live and the power will start depleting (reapplying the tab has no effect). That’s why you should pull the tab only if you plan on using the battery immediately.
3. Utilize the five-minute rule
Just after removing the tab, don’t insert the battery into the hearing aid immediately. Instead, wait around 5-7 minutes. This will permit the air to properly activate the battery, expanding its life by up to three days.
4. Store at room temperature
You may have heard that you can extend the life of your batteries by storing them in your refrigerator. The frigid temperature decreases the discharge of power, or so the reasoning goes.
The problem is that the exact opposite takes place. Zinc-air batteries and moisture do not mix, and the condensation that develops from the refrigerator causes corrosion and an increased 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
If you’re not using your hearing aid, turn it off and open the battery door. This minimizes 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 safest place.
6. Invest in a hearing aid dehumidifier
With a hearing aid dehumidifier, you won’t have to worry about where to store your hearing aids. Every night, put your hearing aids in the dehumidifier to expel moisture and to provide a safe place for storage.
7. Remove 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, removing the batteries entirely will help prevent 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 harmful for both the hearing aid batteries and the hearing aids themselves. That’s the reason it’s important to wash your hands before replacing the batteries.