There is no simple answer to the question “Which type of hearing aid battery should I buy?” because hearing aid types and the batteries they operate on common in many varieties. For anyone that already wears a hearing aid the owner’s manual should clearly specify which battery size is required. Conversely you may get in touch with the provider that fit you with the aid to ask. In the event that you do not use a hearing aid yet and are still looking to decide which type and model is right for you, do a little research to help you decide. Hearing aid batteries vary widely in cost, and in the life of the battery, so your choice of hearing aid can affect the amount of money you spend over time to use it.
To make things simpler for buyers, hearing aid producers and those who make the batteries for them have developed a standardized color coding system to make the right size easier to find. The sizes are all standard across manufacturers, so the color on the packaging is a reliable indication of the battery type and size.
The four most common types are:
Size 10 / Yellow – Batteries that have a yellow color code are Size 10, and can be the easiest to locate because they are widely used in Completely-In-Canal (CIC) and In-The-Canal (ITC) models of hearing aids; their battery life is shorter, typically 80 hours.
Size 675 / Blue – A color code of blue always identifies Size 675 batteries, which are generally used in cochlear implants and larger Behind-The-Ear (BTE) type hearing aids; the 675 batteries have a typical battery life of 300 hours.
Size 312 / Brown – The color brown always means Size 312 batteries. Size 312 batteries are on the smaller side and typically maintain a charge for around 175 hours. These batteries are common in In-The-Canal (ITC) and In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids.
Size 13 / Orange – Batteries carrying a color code of orange are Size 13, and common in Behind-the-Ear (BTE) and In-the-Ear (ITE) types of hearing aids; their battery life is commonly up to 240 hours.
Some varieties of hearing aids call for alternative battery sizes and types, but that is uncommon. Obtaining alternate sizes can be somewhat more difficult since many retailers do not stock or advertise them, however if you inquire they can be ordered for you.
Prior to stocking up on hearing aid batteries, be sure you read the owner’s manual that was included with your device to make sure it does not have rechargeable batteries; if it does, you need disposable ones only as back-up. Additionally, always store your hearing aid batteries in their unopened packages and at room temperature to ensure that they retain their full charge.