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Photo of hearing aid batteries lasting longer.

There is one component that is crucial to keeping hearing aids economical and that is the batteries. It is one of the largest financial worries consumers face when shopping for hearing aids because the costs of replacing them can add up fast.

Even more concerning, what if the batteries quit at absolutely the worst moment? This is a huge problem even for rechargeable brands.

There are things you can do to increase the life of the batteries in hearing aids, so you don’t need to stop and replace them several times a week. Think about these six simple ways you can make those batteries last just a little bit longer.

1. If You’re Looking to Buy a Hearing Aid, be Smart About it

When you first start shopping for your hearing aids is when it all begins. Quality of brand and hearing aid features are just a couple of the factors which dictate battery life. Not all batteries are created equally, either. Cheap components and even cheaper batteries are what defines low quality hearing aids. You’ll be switching those batteries out all the time, so make sure to discuss this with your hearing specialist.

Consider what features you need, and make some comparisons as you shop around. You’ll find that non-wireless hearing aids come with batteries that can last two times as long as the wireless devices. The bigger the hearing aid, the longer the battery will last, too. The smaller devices will need new batteries every couple of days, but larger units can go for around two weeks on one set of cells. Understand how all of the features of a hearing aid affect the power consumption and then choose the ones you require.

2. The Hearing Aids Need to be Stored Properly

To avoid drainage of power you will usually have to open the battery door at night. Also, you will want to:

Keep your batteries in a cool, dry place. Humidity and high temperatures will impact battery cells. Room temperature is okay just keep them out of the sun and away from heat sources include light bulbs.

Also, a dehumidifier is a smart idea. It’s one of the smartest ways to protect both the hearing aids and their batteries. Their fragile components are easily damaged by moisture in the air.

3. Take Precautions When Changing the Batteries

Begin with clean, dry hands. Moisture, dirt, and grease all impact battery life. Until it’s time to use the batteries, be certain to leave the plastic tabs on. The latest hearing aid batteries mix zinc with the air to power up. But you want to be ready before that occurs.

After you remove the tab, but before you put them in, it’s good to let them sit out for 5 minutes. The battery could be prolonged by days if you do this.

4. Play Around With Different Batteries and Battery Sources

Needless to say, cheap batteries will wear out faster than quality ones. Consider not just the brands, though, but what types of hearing aid batteries you’re using and also where you buy them. If you buy in quantity, you can get good batteries for less at some big box stores.

If you buy them online, particularly from auction sites such as eBay, use caution. Batteries have an expiration date that they need to be sold by. After they expire, they shouldn’t be used.

The easiest way to find batteries at an affordable price is to ask your hearing care specialist.

5. Accept The Unavoidable And be Ready For it

Eventually, the batteries are going to die. If you don’t want to end up in a difficult situation, it’s better to get an idea when this will occur. To keep track of when the batteries fizzle and need to be changed, make a schedule. You’ll get a feel for when you need to replace them over time.

A diary will also assist you in figuring out which brands are right for your hearing devices and what features have the biggest effect on the battery life.

6. Consider the Alternatives to Batteries

One of the best things about modern hearing aids is that some are rechargeable. You might pay slightly more for those units, but it will be worth it if you can save money on batteries. Rechargeable batteries are probably the best option if you need a lot of features like Bluetooth or wireless.

The batteries that make hearing aids work can be as significant an investment as the hearing aids are. Lengthening the life of your batteries and saving money starts with some due diligence. Contact a hearing aid retailer for some information on what option is best for you.
