Expanding the lifespan of your hearing aid batteries can save you both time and money. If you can attain a few additional days out of each battery, that’s a decent amount saved during the course of a year.
Luckily, there are a handful of things you can do to optimize your hearing aid battery life. If you can turn these eight tips into habits, you should notice a difference immediately.
Here are eight ways to maximize the life of your hearing aid batteries.
1. Purchase new hearing aid batteries
Hearing aid batteries unopened in the package can last for several years. However, like all batteries, power is reduced 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 them
Hearing aids take a specialized 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. After the tab is removed, air enters the holes and stimulates the zinc.
As soon as this occurs, the battery is active and the power starts depleting (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. Implement the five-minute rule
Just after removing the tab, don’t place the battery into the hearing aid right away. Rather, wait about 5-7 minutes. This will enable the air to thoroughly activate the battery, increasing its life by up to three days.
4. Store at room temperature
You may have heard that you can lengthen the life of your batteries by keeping them in your refrigerator. The frigid temperature slows the release of power, or so the thinking goes.
The issue is that the exact opposite happens. Zinc-air batteries and moisture do not mix, and the condensation that occurs from the refrigerator causes corrosion and an elevated 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
When you’re not using your hearing aid, turn it off and open the battery door. This reduces drain and prevents corrosion. But keep in mind, don’t store your hearing aids in the bathroom; temperature changes and dampness are harmful to the batteries. Your bedroom side table is probably the best place.
6. Invest in a hearing aid dehumidifier
If you have a hearing aid dehumidifier, you won’t have to worry about where to store your hearing aids. In the evenings, put your hearing aids in the dehumidifier to remove 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 a while, taking out the batteries entirely will help prevent corrosion from collected moisture within the hearing aid.
8. Wash your hands before changing the batteries
You should 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.