How Can You Prevent Hearing Aid Repairs?

Hearing aids are life-changing devices for people experiencing hearing loss. For those that rely on these devices, the idea of being without their hearing aids due to the need for repairs is troubling, and preventing such a scenario is obviously of paramount concern.

Unfortunately, it is impossible to completely prevent hearing aid repairs altogether. However, the good news is that with a few usage adjustments, you can dramatically reduce the likelihood that your devices will need to be repaired in the future; here’s what you need to know.

1. Keep your hearing aids dry at all times

Moisture is one of the most damaging items to hearing aids, especially if the moisture passes through the casing and reaches the delicate internal components of the device. To prevent this scenario, focus on ensuring your hearing aids remain dry at all times. If it starts to rain, use an umbrella, or remove your hearing aids until you’re in a more sheltered location; never wear your devices when showering or bathing, and it’s also advisable to remove your hearing aids when exercising to prevent damage from sweat. As an extra preventative step, you can also store your hearing aids in a moisture-wicking jar when not in use.

2. Clean your hearing aids after every use

Moisture aside, one of the most common causes of hearing aid problems is excess ear wax buildup, which can cause muffled sound or feedback. It is therefore advisable to develop the habit of cleaning your hearing aids after each use – though it’s essential to only use a dry cloth for this purpose and to clean the external casing rather than the internal components.

3. Keep your ears clean

Given that ear wax buildup can be so problematic for hearing aids, it’s worth considering having your ears professionally cleaned to help reduce the chances of problems occurring. Between cleanings, it’s also helpful to wipe the outer shell of your ears with a dry cloth before inserting your hearing aids – though using a cotton swab or similar object to clean inside the ears is best avoided.

4. Store your hearing aids in a robust container

Hearing aids are relatively delicate devices, which can mean that they are liable to damage – and particularly so when they are not in use. If you carry your hearing aids with you in your bag, ensure a robust, purpose-designed container protects them. Furthermore, when storing your hearing aids at night, always keep them in a solid container, which should be placed within a drawer to prevent inadvertent knocks to the ground.

Hopefully, keeping the above tips in mind will help to prevent the need for your hearing aids to undergo repairs in the future. However, it is essential to note that if your device does develop a fault, it is always best to take the advice to be professionally examined; hearing aids are intricate devices, so repairs should only ever be conducted by an experienced professional.