15 May Hearing Aid Battery 101
Batteries seem pretty straight forward to the functioning of a hearing aid: you put a new one in, the hearing aid works. When the hearing aid is not working, first thought is that it needs a new battery. Most people don’t think of hearing aid batteries until there is a problem. However, there are some common questions and answers that every hearing aid user should know:
1) How do I know what battery to use? Hearing aid batteries come in 2 types, either disposable or rechargeable, and 4 sizes, size 10, 312, 13, and 675. Rechargeable batteries are available in certain hearing aids, and have to be replaced roughly once a year and charged after each usage. Disposable batteries are used until they are dead, and then disposed of. If you forget the size of your hearing aid battery, all packages are color coded so as long as you remember the color of the tab, you can remember your size. Yellow = size 10, brown = size 312, orange =size 13, blue = size 675.
2) How long should my battery last? Battery lifespan depends on both the size of the battery, and the power demands from the hearing aid. The smaller the battery, the shorter the lifespan; the more power or signal processing in the hearing aid, the shorter the lifespan of the battery as there is a higher power draw. On average, a size 10 battery will last 4-5 days, a size 312 will last roughly 6-7 days, and a 13 battery 8-9 days.
3) How long will my hearing aid batteries last in the box with the sticker on? Hearing aid batteries will have a “best before” date on the box, and normally the shelf life is a few years. Fresh batteries are best, but you can stock up on batteries when you find a good deal as the shelf life is quite long.
4) What happens once the sticker tab is pulled off? Once the sticker is pulled off the battery, the battery is active and losing power. This is why you don’t peel the sticker off until right before you put the battery in your hearing aid. It is a good idea to put the sticker on your wall calendar so you can track your battery life!
5) Why is it encouraged to open the battery door of the hearing aid when not in use? Even though the battery is active once the sticker is pulled off, it is still important to open the battery door so the hearing aid isn’t drawing power while not in your ear. This prolongs battery life and prevents corrosion of the battery compartment.
6) Where should I store my extra batteries? It is ideal to store batteries at room temperature; avoid storing them in direct sunlight or in extreme temperatures (so avoid leaving them in the car or on the windowsill).
7) Are hearing aid batteries safe for pets? Hearing aid batteries should not be swallowed by adults, children, or pets. Visit http://www.poison.org/battery/ if a battery is consumed.
8) What do the beeps mean?? Anytime your hearing aid beeps without you pressing a button, it is telling you something. Most likely, it is telling you that the battery is low and it needs to be changed. This doesn’t mean that your hearing aid is slowly dying off and you’re getting a weak signal, but rather that you should change the battery before it dies completely.
Hearing aid batteries keep you hearing your best. Understanding their functioning and their role in your hearing aid are essential to success!