There are so many different types of hearing aids on the market today. However, no matter what kind of hearing aid you have purchased, one thing you need to do is make sure you buy the right batteries and that you care for them properly too. In this blog post, we will reveal everything you need to know about hearing aid batteries, including the different options that are available, as well as some advice on care and maintenance too.

Information on buying hearing aid batteries

The first decision you need to make is whether to go for rechargeable batteries or not. Most hearing aid professionals will recommend that you do choose rechargeable batteries. After all, this makes it a lot easier for you. All you need to do is recharge your battery during the evening, so you don’t have to worry about running out of power. Nevertheless, a lot of people today still use the zinc-air button disposable batteries that are available.

Let’s take a look at the different types of batteries that are available for devices today. The different battery types available are as follows:

  • Orange, size 13
  • Brown, size 312
  • Yellow, size 10
  • Blue, size 675

The battery you purchase will depend on the type of hearing aid device you have. Orange batteries are usually suitable for Behind-The-Ear (BTE) and In-The-Ear (ITE) devices. They usually last for 240 hours. Brown batteries tend to be smaller in size. You will usually find them in In-The-Ear (ITE) devices and In-The-Canal (ITC) devices. They last for approximately 175 hours. Yellow batteries tend to be found in both In-The-Canal (ITC) devices and Completely-In-Canal (CIC) hearing aids. They usually last for 80 hours only. For blue batteries, you will find them in some cochlear implants, as well as Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids. They last the longest when compared to other batteries; usually around 300 hours.

Caring for your hearing aid batteries so that they last longer

Of course, you need to buy the right hearing aid batteries first and foremost. This is something that your audiologist will have explained to you in any case. However, you also need to make sure that you care for the batteries too. So, let’s take a look at some of the different ways you can care for your hearing aid batteries so that they last as long as possible:

  • Make sure you store your hearing aid battery in a cool and dry place whenever you are not using it, for example, during the evening when you are sleeping. You do not even need to take the battery out of the device, yet it is a good idea to open the compartment door to the battery so that you can let it breathe.
  • Be careful when putting your battery in the hearing device. We have all been there; putting batteries into something the wrong way round by accident. A lot of people usually put batteries inside of an item, see if the device works, and then they turn it around if it does not. However, this actually drains the battery, so it is best to check before!
  • Don’t store your zinc-air batteries in the refrigerator. This is a common myth that is out there today. However, it does not have any advantages. In fact, it can lower battery life prematurely because it can result in condensation forming underneath the sticker.

Some signs that your hearing aid batteries are failing

It is also wise to know about the signs that your hearing aid batteries are failing so that you can act quickly. Some of the common signs include:

  • Increased tendency for hearing feedback
  • Distortion
  • Intermittence
  • Weak output
  • Unusual sounds

If you notice any of the signs that have been mentioned above, it could be a sign that now is the time to change your batteries. If this does not make a difference, you should book an appointment with an audiologist so that you can get to the bottom of the issue with your hearing device.

Speak to an experienced audiologist for more information

If you are worried that you have a problem with your hearing, or you already have a hearing device, but you think there could be an issue with your hearing aid batteries, Davis Audiology can assist. You can reach our office by calling (864) 810-6238. We will be more than happy to answer any questions you have.