We tend to notice technology the most when it stops working. With hearing aids that’s especially true: Hearing aids are an essential lifeline to the rest of society for people who wear them not just a piece of technology.
It’s both emotionally and physiologically important to discover solutions for broken hearing aids as quickly as possible. Troubleshooting can be a frustrating, risky process whether you’ve been wearing them for a week, a year, or decades. But if you want to get your hearing aid working correctly again there are some simple steps you can take.
Before Problems Happen Take Protective Measures
Hearing aids are no exception to the rule, like any other piece of technology, they need regular maintenance. Even though the casing might appear simple and robust, the electronics inside can be incredibly sophisticated.
So this means upkeep is essential. There are some simple ways you can make sure to take care of your hearing aids as you’re using them.
Keeping Your Hearing Aids Clean is a Must
Each day, a certain amount of wax is normally and naturally created by your ears. And, to a certain extent, that earwax is helpful for your ears. But your hearing aids don’t do as well with it. Keeping your hearing aids clear and clean of wax buildup can help improve the life of the devices. The fact is that a built-in wax filter comes with most hearing aids that should also be cleaned periodically.
Keep Your Hearing Aids Dry
Moisture and electronics don’t go well together. And despite the best protection technology can build, consistent subjection to moisture can gradually wear down the internal electronics of your hearing aids, compromising their performance.
This Means using your hearing aids in the shower or while swimming is a bad idea. Also, dry your hearing aids with a towel if they get wet. Don’t use a hair dryer because it can damage them.
Make an Appointment With Professional Cleaners
Hearing aids need specialized cleaning because they are delicate, expensive technology. Even if you’re fairly rigorous about your own cleaning routines, there are just some things that can be better accomplished by a specialized cleaner.
That’s why it’s recommended you take your hearing aids in to be cleaned every 4-6 months.
How to Diagnose Existing Issues
Protective steps are essential if your hearing aids are currently working properly. But if you’re experiencing issues, if your hearing aids aren’t working well anymore, you’re probably more interested in some quick fixes.
Try one of the following steps if your hearing aids aren’t functioning correctly:
- Cycle the device power (turn it off and turn it back on). This will correct the problem in some cases.
- Replace your power source or battery, even if your batteries are rechargeable.
- Check your hearing aid for debris or wax accumulate. If you notice any wax accumulation or debris, clean them away.
- Adjust the volume. There will be either a volume dial on the hearing aid or a remote you can use for this. If your hearing aid has both options, try both ways.
- Inspect your hearing aids for obvious signs of damage, such as blemishes or cracks. Your hearing aid might need to be repaired if you notice any of this type of damage.
- Examine your own ears. It’s possible that earwax buildup in your ear canal is interfering with the sound from your hearing aid.
- Look inside the battery compartment. Look for corrosion or loose wiring. Any substantial damage will need to be fixed by a professional but you can try cleaning off any corrosion you discover.
- Adjust the settings or toggle between programs. Many hearing aids are different in this respect, so your course of action will depend on the model you have.
It’s likely that you will need to have the device fixed professionally if you want it back to original condition if none of these options work.
What if That Doesn’t Fix My Hearing Aids?
When your hearing aids aren’t working well anymore and troubleshooting has not resolved the issue, you will most likely have two options: you either need to get a new set or send them in for service. The age of your hearing aids, your personal situation, and other variables will determine which choice will work best for you.
Take the time to troubleshoot your hearing aids if they aren’t working well. A discussion with your hearing professional to determine a solution is the next thing you should do if that doesn’t work. To find a solution schedule an appointment right away.