Lengthening the life of your hearing aid batteries could save you both time and money. If you can attain a few extra days out of each battery, that’s a decent amount saved during the course of 12 months.
Luckily, there are a number of things you can do to optimize the life of your hearing aid batteries. If you can turn these eight recommendations into habits, you should notice a difference immediately.
Below are eight ways to optimize the life of your hearing aid batteries.
1. Buy new hearing aid batteries
Hearing aid batteries unopened in the package can last for several years. However, just like all batteries, power is diminished as each year passes by, so it’s always better to purchase the newer package.
2. Don’t remove the tab until you’re ready to use them
Hearing aids use a special type of battery referred to 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 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 remove the tab only if you plan on using the battery right away.
3. Utilize the five-minute rule
Immediately after removing the tab, don’t insert the battery into the hearing aid right away. 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 might have heard that you can prolong the life of your batteries by storing them in your refrigerator. The cold temperature decreases the discharge of power, or so the reasoning goes.
The issue is that the opposite happens. Zinc-air batteries and moisture do not mix, and the condensation that develops from the refrigerator causes corrosion and a greater 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
If you’re not using your hearing aid, turn it off and open the battery door. This reduces drain and blocks corrosion. But keep in mind, don’t store your hearing aids in the bathroom; moisture and temperature changes are hazardous 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. At night, put your hearing aids in the dehumidifier to eliminate moisture and to provide a secure place for storage.
7. Remove the batteries if you won’t be using your hearing aids for extended periods
If you don’t anticipate 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. Clean your hands before changing the batteries
You should always remember that dirt, grime, and moisture are harmful for both the hearing aid batteries and the hearing aids themselves. That’s why it’s important to wash your hands before changing the batteries.