Lengthening the life of your hearing aid batteries could save you both time and money. If you can get a few extra days out of each battery, that’s a good amount saved over the course of 12 months.
Fortunately, there are a handful of things you can do to optimize your hearing aid battery life. If you can convert these eight recommendations into habits, you should observe a difference right away.
The following are eight ways to maximize the lifespan of your hearing aid batteries.
1. Buy new hearing aid batteries
Hearing aid batteries unopened in the package can last for years. Unfortunately, just like all batteries, power is diminished as each year passes, so it’s always more advantageous to purchase the newer package.
2. Don’t remove the tab until you’re ready to use the batteries
Hearing aids use a specialized kind of battery known as 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 happens, 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 anticipate using the battery immediately.
3. Use the five-minute rule
Once you remove the tab, don’t insert the battery into the hearing aid immediately. Instead, wait about 5-7 minutes. This will enable the air to thoroughly activate the battery, expanding its life by as long as three days.
4. Store at room temperature
You may have read that you can extend the life of your batteries by storing them in your refrigerator. The frigid temperature slows the discharge of power, or so the reasoning goes.
The problem is that the opposite occurs. 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 being used
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; temperature changes and dampness are detrimental to the batteries. Your bedroom side table is probably the best 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, place 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 plan on using your hearing aids for some time, taking out the batteries entirely will help prevent corrosion from trapped moisture within the hearing aid.
8. Wash your hands before changing the batteries
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.
