Hearing aids are small but powerful devices that could benefit more than 28.8 million U.S. adults with hearing loss. Like any bit of tech, hearing aids require care and maintenance to keep them running their best. Let’s take a look at a few important tasks to include in your hearing aid maintenance.
Clean Your Hearing Aids
Wipe your devices with a dry, lint-free cloth each evening to remove dust, oil and moisture. Use a soft brush to clear away any earwax buildup from the microphone and receiver.
Beyond daily maintenance, a more thorough weekly cleaning can help extend the life of your hearing aids. Once a week, use a hearing aid cleaning kit to deep clean every part of your devices. If your hearing aids have tubing or removable ear tips, check for wax buildup and clean them according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Store Carefully
When not in use, store your hearing aids in a protective case in a cool, dry location. If they’re rechargeable, place them in their charging station overnight.
Monitor Battery Health
For rechargeable models, ensure they are fully charged before use. If you use disposable batteries, keep spare ones on hand and replace them as needed to avoid interruptions.
Check for Performance Issues
If you notice muffled sound, feedback (whistling sound) or static, take a moment to inspect your hearing aids for any obstructions or damage. Addressing minor issues early can prevent more significant problems down the road.
Double-check that any customizable settings are working as expected. If sounds feel off, your hearing aids may need professional recalibration.
When to Seek Professional Servicing
Even with meticulous at-home care, hearing aids benefit from periodic professional maintenance. Scheduling a check-up every six months ensures they can continue to perform at their best. A professional service visit may include deep cleaning, performance testing to check sound quality and repairs when necessary.
Hearing aids are an investment in your quality of life. You can enjoy uninterrupted, high-quality sound every day by implementing a consistent maintenance routine and seeking professional servicing when needed.
To learn more about caring for your devices, contact North Alabama ENT Associates today.