Hearing aids are a lifeline for those with hearing loss, making daily life more manageable and enjoyable. However, when these intricate electronic devices aren’t working as they should, it can be both frustrating and disruptive. Due to their delicate design, regular cleaning, maintenance, and occasional repairs are essential to keep them performing at their best.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through the most frequent hearing aid concerns and practical solutions to get your hearing back on track.
My hearing aids aren’t producing any sound
The primary function of hearing aids is to deliver clear sound. But what should you do if that sound becomes distorted or stops altogether?
Start by visually inspecting your hearing aid. Check for any earwax blocking the microphone opening or sound outlet. If earwax is present, gently clean it away using a soft bristle brush.
- Hold the hearing aid with the opening facing downward while brushing to allow any debris to fall away.
- For stubborn build-up, use a cleaning wire or wax pick to carefully remove any residue that the brush couldn’t dislodge.
- Finally, wipe the device with a soft, dry cloth to make sure all traces of wax are removed.
If no earwax or debris is obstructing the device, the next step is to check if your hearing aid is powered on. Although it might seem obvious, rechargeable hearing aids can fail if they aren’t docked correctly or if the charging plug isn’t turned on.
For hearing aids that use disposable batteries, check if the battery is dead using a hearing aid battery tester. If replacing the battery, remember to let the new battery sit for a few minutes to activate after removing its tab. Also, ensure the battery is inserted correctly; the battery door should close easily. If it doesn’t, the battery might be upside down, so remove and reinsert it properly.
If you’ve tried these steps and the sound issue persists, your hearing aid might be damaged. Water exposure is a common culprit, as most hearing aids are not waterproof.
My hearing aids are whistling or producing feedback
One of the most common issues hearing aid users encounter is feedback or whistling sounds from their devices. This typically occurs when sound leaks from the receiver and is picked up by the microphone, creating a feedback loop.
Fortunately, resolving this problem may be simpler than it seems. Start by removing and reinserting your hearing aids, as they may not have been positioned correctly.
If the issue persists, try turning down the volume. If reducing the volume stops the whistling and your hearing aids are properly inserted, the cause could be excessive sound leakage through the vent around the earmold. In this case, consult your audiologist to adjust the fit of your device to eliminate the feedback.
It’s also important to consider that the whistling may not be entirely due to your hearing aids. Earwax can block your ear canals, affecting how the device functions. If you find yourself frequently increasing the volume to hear properly, it could be a sign of wax build-up. Visit your audiologist for professional earwax removal.
For those using behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids with earmolds and tubing, inspect the tubing to ensure it is securely connected to both the hearing aid and the earmold. Check for signs of brittleness, hardness, or cracks in the tubing, as these can compromise sound quality and lead to feedback. If the tubing is damaged, it will likely need to be replaced to restore its performance.
My hearing aids got damaged by water
While many hearing aids are designed to be water-resistant, this does not make them waterproof. Water-resistant devices can typically withstand light exposure, such as splashes, but full submersion or repeated contact with water can cause serious damage. If your hearing aids get wet, acting quickly can help minimise potential harm.
Here’s what you should do:
Remove the Hearing Aids Immediately
If you realise your hearing aids have been exposed to water; whether from swimming, showering or an accidental spill, remove them immediately and take them to a dry location. The longer they remain in contact with moisture, the greater the risk of permanent damage.
Turn Off the Device and Remove the Batteries
Power down the hearing aids as soon as possible to prevent further electrical damage. Open the battery compartment and remove the batteries, as water can quickly seep into this area. Leave the compartment open to allow it to air out, as this will help dry out internal components.
Dry the Hearing Aids Thoroughly
Begin by gently blotting away any visible moisture with a soft, dry cloth or paper towel. Avoid using heat sources like hair dryers or heaters, as excessive heat can warp the delicate components of the device.
Reinsert Batteries and Test the Device
Once you’re confident the hearing aids are completely dry, insert fresh batteries and turn the devices on. Test them to see if they are functioning properly. If they show any signs of malfunction, such as distorted sound or failure to power on, stop using them immediately.
Contact Your Audiologist
If your hearing aids still aren’t working after drying, they may have sustained significant water damage. Contact your audiologist or hearing aid provider for further assessment. In some cases, they may recommend professional repair or suggest replacing the device if it is beyond repair.
Contact Sutton Hearing Centre today to book an appointment with one of our audiologists.