We usually only notice technology the most when it quits working. That’s especially true with hearing aids: To the majority of people who use them, hearing aids are more than just a piece of technology; they’re a crucial lifeline to the rest of the world.
So finding solutions for a malfunctioning hearing aid, and finding those solutions quickly, is vital for both physiological and emotional reasons. Troubleshooting can be a frustrating, risky process whether you’ve been wearing them for a week, a year, or decades. But there are some fairly easy steps you can try to get your hearing aid working correctly again.
Before Trouble Occurs Take Preventative Measures
Hearing aids are no exception to the rule, like any other piece of technology, they require regular maintenance. Despite the fact that the casing may appear simple and robust, the electronics inside can be extremely sophisticated.
So this means upkeep is essential. While you’re using your hearing aids, there are a few things you can do that will make taking care of them simpler.
Keep Your Hearing Aids Clean
Your ears naturally and normally generate a certain amount of wax each day. And, to some degree, that earwax is good for your ears. But your hearing aids can be damaged by it. Keeping your hearing aids clean and clear of wax buildup can help the life of the devices. The fact is that a built-in wax filter comes with most hearing aids that should also be periodically cleaned.
Keep Your Hearing Aids Dry
Moisture and electronics don’t go well together. The effectiveness of your hearing aids can be jeopardized, in spite of the best protection technology available, if it is routinely exposed to moisture.
This Means wearing your hearing aids in the shower or while swimming is not a good idea. Also, if your hearing aids do become wet, dry them with a towel; heat from a hairdryer, for example, can harm your hearing aids.
Schedule Time With Professional Cleaners
Hearing aids require specialized cleaning since they are delicate, expensive technology. Even if you’re pretty thorough 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 Issues
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.
If your hearing aids aren’t functioning properly, try one of the following steps:
- Adjust the settings or switch between programs. How you respond will depend on the model because they’re all different in this respect.
- Check for corrosion or loose wiring inside the battery compartment. If you find corrosion, you can attempt to carefully clean it away, but significant damage will have to be fixed professionally.
- Inspect your hearing aid for wax or debris accumulate. Gently clear away any wax or debris you may find.
- Change out your battery or power source, even if your batteries are rechargeable.
- Turn your hearing aid of then back on. In certain cases, this will correct the issue.
- Look over your hearing aids for blemishes, cracks or other noticeable signs of damage. Such damage could mean the hearing aid needs to be repaired.
- Adjust the volume. This can be done with a remote or manually with the wheel on the hearing aid. If your hearing aid has both options, try doing both.
- Examine your own ears. Sound from your hearing aid might be blocked by earwax buildup.
It’s likely that you will need to get the device repaired professionally if you want it back to peak condition if none of these options work.
What if Nothing I Try Works?
When your hearing aids aren’t functioning properly anymore and troubleshooting has not addressed the problem, you will most likely have two choices: either send the hearing aids in for repair or buy a new set of hearing aids. The age of your hearing aids, your personal circumstances, and other variables will establish which choice will work best for you.
If your hearing aids aren’t functioning properly right now, take the time to try some troubleshooting. A discussion with a hearing professional to find a solution is the next step if that doesn’t help. Make an appointment to find a solution today.