When technology stops working properly, that’s when we usually notice it the most. With hearing aids that’s particularly true: Hearing aids are an essential lifeline to the rest of society for people who wear them not just a piece of technology.
So finding solutions for a malfunctioning hearing aid, and finding those solutions as quickly as possible, is important for both physiological and emotional reasons. Troubleshooting can be a difficult, risky process whether you’ve been wearing them for a week, a year, or decades. But there are some relatively easy steps you can try to get your hearing aid working correctly again.
Preventing Trouble Before it Occurs
Hearing aids are no exception to the rule, like any other piece of tech, they need routine maintenance. Even though the casing might look simple and robust, the electronics inside can be amazingly sophisticated.
As a result of this you need to keep them well maintained. While you’re using your hearing aids, there are some things you can do that will make taking care of them easier.
Keeping Your Hearing Aids Clean is a Must
Your ears normally and naturally produce a certain amount of wax each day. And, to some degree, that earwax is good for your ears. But it’s not so good for your hearing aids. To help improve the life of your device keep your hearing aids clean and clear of wax. In fact, a built-in wax filter comes standard with most hearing aids that should also be cleaned periodically.
Don’t Allow Your Hearing Aids Get Wet
Moisture and electronics don’t go well together. And in spite of the best protection technology can build, repeated exposure to moisture can eventually wear down the internal electronics of your hearing aids, compromising their performance.
This means that you shouldn’t use your hearing aids in the shower or while in the pool. Additionally, if your hearing aids do become wet, dry them with a towel; heat from a hairdryer, for example, can damage your hearing aids.
Schedule an Appointment With Professional Cleaners
Hearing aids are sensitive (and commonly expensive) technology, and as such, they require specialized cleaning practices. Even if you’re pretty rigorous about your own cleaning habits, there are just some things that can be better achieved by a specialized cleaner.
That’s why it’s suggested that you bring your hearing aids in to be cleaned every 4-6 months.
How to Diagnose Existing Problems
Even if your hearing aids are presently working, you will still be required to take preventative steps. You’re probably more interested in quick fixes if your having problems with your hearing aids not working anymore.
Try one of the following steps if your hearing aids aren’t functioning properly:
- Switch between programs or adjust the settings. How you respond will depend on the model because they’re all different in this regard.
- Check your own ears. It’s possible that earwax accumulation in your ear canal is interfering with the sound from your hearing aid.
- Check for corrosion or loose wiring in the battery compartment. If you find corrosion, you can attempt to carefully clean out, but considerable damage will need to be repaired professionally.
- Turn your hearing aid of then back on. In some cases, this will correct the issue.
- Inspect your hearing aid for debris or wax accumulate. Carefully clear away any wax or debris you may find.
- Examine your hearing aids for noticeable signs of damage, like cracks or blemishes. Such damage could indicate the hearing aid needs to be repaired.
- Even if your batteries are rechargeable they will periodically need to be replaced.
- Adjust the volume. This can be done via a remote or manually via the dial on the hearing aid. Try to do both if you have the option with your hearing aid.
If none of these measures address your hearing aid problems, it’s likely that you’ll have to get the device fixed professionally in order to return it to peak operating condition.
What if Nothing I Try Helps?
When your hearing aids aren’t functioning properly anymore and troubleshooting has not taken care of the issue, you will likely have two choices: you either need to purchase a new set or send them in for repair. Which choice works best for you will depend on your circumstances, how old your hearing aids are, and other variables.
Take the time to troubleshoot your hearing aids if they aren’t working correctly. If that doesn’t work, you can go on to the next steps, such as a discussion with a hearing specialist to find a remedy. To find a solution schedule your appointment right away.