The world of hearing aids can be quite perplexing, particularly regarding the batteries that power them. This comprehensive guide is designed to enlighten you on all aspects of hearing aid battery care, from knowing when to change them to ensure they last as long as possible. You can maximise your hearing aid experience with our helpful tips and tricks.

How do Rechargeable Batteries Work?

Rechargeable hearing aids have built-in lithium-ion batteries that can be recharged using a charging dock or cable. Simply place your hearing aids in the charger when unused, and they will automatically recharge.

Rechargeable hearing aid batteries can last anywhere from one to several days on a single charge, depending on the specific model and usage patterns.

Charging your rechargeable hearing aids is as simple as placing them in the charging dock or connecting the charging cable to the hearing aid and a power source. The charging process typically takes a few hours to complete.

Battery life for hearing aid batteries

Understanding the typical battery life for hearing aid batteries is essential to ensure a seamless and uninterrupted experience with your hearing aids. Battery life can vary depending on your hearing aid's size, type, and usage patterns. 

Proper storage, care, and maintenance can also impact how long your hearing aid batteries last. In the chart below, we've provided an overview of the average lifespan for the most common hearing aid battery sizes to give you a better idea of what to expect.

Average Lifespan of Hearing Aid Batteries

1. Size 10 - three to seven days

2. Size 312 - three to 10 days

3. Size 13 - six to 14 days

4. Size 675 - nine to 20 days

Disposable vs. rechargeable hearing aids

While disposable batteries require frequent replacement, they offer more flexibility in terms of battery life and are often less expensive upfront. 

Rechargeable hearing aids, on the other hand, provide a more eco-friendly and convenient solution, eliminating the need to purchase and change batteries regularly.

How do I know if my hearing aid batteries need changing?

Decreased Sound Quality: One of the first indications that your battery needs to be replaced is a noticeable decline in sound quality.

Fading or Intermittent Sound: If your hearing aid starts producing inconsistent sound or fades in and out, it's time to change the battery.

The Hearing Aid Won't Turn On: If you cannot switch on your hearing aid, a dead battery might be the culprit.

How can I maximise my hearing aid battery's life?

Store Batteries Properly: Keep your hearing aid batteries in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

Turn Off Hearing Aids When Not in Use: To conserve battery life, turn off your hearing aids when not in use.

Remove the Battery at Night: Taking out the battery when you're not wearing your hearing aids allows any moisture to evaporate, prolonging the battery's life.

Use Batteries with Fresh Expiration Dates: When purchasing batteries, check the expiration date on the packaging. Opt for batteries with the furthest expiration dates to ensure you get fresh, high-quality batteries that will last longer.

Keep the Protective Tab Intact: Don't remove the protective tab from the battery until you're ready to use it. The tab prevents the battery from coming into contact with air, which activates the battery and starts the discharge process.

Use a Battery Caddy: A battery caddy is a small, portable container designed to store hearing aid batteries safely. Using a battery caddy can help protect batteries from damage and prevent contact with metal objects that may cause them to discharge prematurely.

Minimise Exposure to Extreme Temperatures: Avoid storing your hearing aid batteries in locations with high or low temperatures, such as in a car during summer or winter. Extreme temperatures can negatively impact battery performance and lifespan.

Alternate Batteries: If you have two sets of hearing aids, consider alternating their usage. This can help prolong the life of the batteries in both sets by allowing them to rest and recover when not in use.

Manage Volume Settings: If possible, use lower volume settings on your hearing aid. Higher volumes can drain the battery quicker, so be mindful of your volume adjustments.

Avoid Humidity: Excess humidity can shorten the life of your hearing aid batteries. Keep your hearing aids and batteries dry, and consider using a dehumidifier if you live in a humid area.

Useful hearing aid battery care tips

Clean Your Hearing Aids Regularly: Accumulated dirt and moisture can negatively affect battery performance. Regular cleaning will help maintain optimal battery life.

Use the Right Battery Size: Ensure you use the correct battery size for your hearing aid model. The wrong size can lead to poor performance and shorter battery life.

Follow the 5-Minute Rule: Allow your battery to "breathe" for five minutes after removing the protective tab before inserting it into the hearing aid. This helps to activate the battery and prolong its life.

Final Words

By following this comprehensive guide on hearing aid battery care, you'll be well-equipped to make the most of your hearing aid experience. 

Understanding the differences between disposable and rechargeable batteries and following proper care tips will help maximise battery life and ensure optimal hearing aid performance.

FAQs

Why do my hearing aid batteries run out so quickly?

Several factors can influence the lifespan of your hearing aid batteries, including the size and type of battery, the hearing aid model, and the amount of daily use. It's essential to follow proper battery care tips to prolong battery life.

What is the 5-minute rule for hearing aid batteries?

The 5-minute rule suggests waiting five minutes after removing the protective tab from a new battery before inserting it into your hearing aid. This allows the battery to "breathe" and activate, ensuring optimal performance and longer life.

How often should you replace hearing aid batteries?

The frequency of battery replacement depends on the specific battery size and your hearing aid usage. On average, you can expect to replace your hearing aid batteries every three to 20 days, depending on the battery size.

Why do my hearing aid batteries only last three days?

If your hearing aid batteries only last three days, it could be due to heavy usage, poor battery quality, or inadequate battery care. Make sure you follow the battery care tips mentioned in this blog post to extend the life of your hearing aid batteries.

How does humidity affect my hearing aid batteries?

Humidity can have a significant impact on hearing aid batteries. High humidity can lead to condensation forming inside the hearing aid, causing the battery to deplete faster. On the other hand, very dry conditions can reduce the battery's capacity. It's essential to store your hearing aids and batteries in a controlled environment, and consider using a dehumidifier in very humid conditions to prolong battery life.

How can I extend the life of my hearing aid battery?

To extend the life of your hearing aid batteries, follow these tips:

1. Store batteries properly in a cool, dry place.

2. Turn off your hearing aids when not in use.

3. Remove the battery at night to allow moisture to evaporate.

4. Clean your hearing aids regularly.

5. Use the correct battery size for your hearing aid model.

6. Follow the 5-minute rule when inserting a new battery.