Hearing aid repairs are common, and you will require them at some point. However, it is easy enough to prevent some of the most common issues with correct maintenance, care and knowing what to look out for. So, here are some pro tips for caring for your hearing device.
What are the Most Common Hearing Aid Issues?
It is easy enough to repair or care for hearing aids because they have the same issues. There are some very common problems that most individuals experience, and this includes:
- No sound coming through your device, or it is distorted.
- Sound comes through in an uncomfortable way.
- Whistling and feedback through your ears.
There are more issues, of course. However, these are usually the top three. Depending on the severity, these can be fixed easily either by yourself or by scheduling a visit with an audiologist.
What to Check First
You may be able to fix or prevent some of the most common issues yourself. Before you attempt to change anything or schedule a consultation, there are some things you can check first. If the sound isn’t right, check for a wax buildup, turn up the volume and see if it’s turned on. The same goes for the volume. The environment can also cause issues with hearing aids. For example, the wind can cause the audio to deteriorate. Wind protectors can help fix issues like this.
Preventing Hearing Aid Problems
Preventing problems with your hearing aids involves several key steps. First, prioritize keeping them clean by wiping them regularly with a soft, dry cloth. Additionally, check and replace batteries as needed to ensure consistent power supply. Avoid exposing your hearing aids to excessive moisture, as it can damage the internal components. Finally, be proactive in installing and changing earwax filters to prevent wax buildup inside the hearing aids. By incorporating these measures into your routine, you can minimize the risk of issues and ensure your hearing aids continue to function effectively.
Preventing Common Battery Issues
Many of the issues that come with hearing aids are down to the batteries. Simply replacing them can fix most. However, moisture can also cause batteries to malfunction. Try to keep your hearing aid away from water and moist places such as in the bathroom when taking a shower. If you have a rechargeable device then replacing the batteries isn’t so simple. If this is the case, take your device to a qualified expert or clinic to have them checked or possibly replaced.
Problems You Can Fix Yourself
It isn’t always necessary to see an audiologist as some of the fixes are easy enough to do yourself. Replacing the batteries as mentioned above is one of them and will help if the device appears to be dead, inconsistent or unclear. If the sound isn’t loud enough, it could be a case that the tubing needs cleaning with soap and water if it isn’t damaged. However, take care when cleaning your device and replacing batteries as hearing aids are fragile devices by their nature.
Schedule an audiologist appointment for hearing aid repairs if you feel there are further issues.
