When technology quits working correctly, that’s when we tend to notice it the most. That’s especially true with hearing aids: To most people who wear them, hearing aids are more than a piece of technology; they’re a vital lifeline to the rest of society.
It’s both emotionally and physiologically important to discover solutions for malfunctioning hearing aids as quickly as possible. Troubleshooting can be a difficult, risky process whether you’ve been wearing them for a week, a year, or decades. But there are some reasonably easy measures you can try to get your hearing aid working properly again.
Before Problems Happen 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 might look simple and robust, the electronics inside can be amazingly sophisticated.
Because of this you need to keep them well maintained. As you’re wearing your hearing aids, there are a few things you can do that will make taking care of them simpler.
Keeping Your Hearing Aids Clean is a Must
Your ears naturally and normally make a certain amount of wax every day. And, the ear wax is, to a certain extent helpful for your ears. But it’s not so great for your hearing aids. Keeping your hearing aids clean and clear of wax can help improve the life of the devices. The fact is that most hearing aids will come with a built-in wax filter that should also be periodically cleaned.
Moisture is The Enemy of Hearing Aids
Moisture and electronics don’t mix well. And despite the best protection technology can produce, consistent exposure to moisture can gradually wear out the internal electronics of your hearing aids, compromising their performance.
This means that you shouldn’t use your hearing aids in the shower or while in the pool. Additionally, if your hearing aids do get wet, towel-dry them; heat from a hairdryer, for example, can harm your hearing aids.
Schedule an Appointment With Professional Cleaners
Hearing aids are sensitive (and commonly expensive) technology, and as such, they call for specialized cleaning practices. A specialized cleaner can better accomplish certain things that you can’t, even if you’re fairly thorough about your cleaning routines.
Every 4-6 months is the recommended time between cleanings.
How to Troubleshoot Existing Problems
Even if your hearing aids are presently working, you will still be required to take preventative steps. But if you’re having problems, if your hearing aids aren’t working well anymore, you’re most likely more interested in some quick fixes.
If your hearing aids aren’t functioning properly, try one of the following steps:
- Check your own ears. Sound from your hearing aid could be blocked by earwax buildup.
- Adjust the volume. There will be either a volume dial on the hearing aid or a remote you can use for this. Try both if you have the option with your hearing aid.
- Examine your hearing aids for noticeable signs of damage, like blemishes or cracks. Your hearing aid might need to be repaired if you find any of this type of damage.
- Replace your battery or power source, even if your batteries are rechargeable.
- Check your hearing aid for wax or debris accumulate. Gently wipe away any wax or debris you may find.
- Check for corrosion or loose wiring inside the battery compartment. Any extensive damage will need to be fixed by a professional but you can attempt to clean off any corrosion you discover.
- Turn your hearing aid of then back on. This will correct the issue in certain cases.
- Change the settings or toggle between programs. Many hearing aids are different in this respect, so your response will depend on the model you have.
It’s likely that you will need to get the device repaired professionally if you want it back to peak performance if none of these tips help.
What if Nothing I Try Works?
You will most likely have two options if you’ve tried to troubleshoot your hearing aid and it still doesn’t work: either send the hearing aids in for repair or purchase a new pair of hearing aids. The age of your hearing aids, your personal situation, and other factors will establish which option will work best for you.
If your hearing aids aren’t functioning properly right now, take the time to try some troubleshooting. If that doesn’t work, you can go on to the next steps, including a discussion with a hearing specialist to determine a solution. Make an appointment to find a solution today.