For those who rely on hearing aids, there’s nothing more irritating than being mid-film or mid-conversation and having the batteries run out. And it’s not just a simple irritation; for those who rely on hearing aids to get about safely and communicate effectively, having optimal battery function is simply a non-negotiable. On average, hearing aid batteries last anywhere from three to twenty-two days - but there are a number of factors that can influence this figure.
In the following guide, we're going to take a look at how long hearing aid batteries last, the different types and sizes available, and how to maximise their lifespan. Let’s dive in!
Understanding Hearing Aid Battery Life
Before we take a look at battery lifespans, it’s important to understand that there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to battery drainage. It’s a bit like a phone; the more you use it, the more the battery will drain. In addition to this, the life of a hearing aid battery largely depends on the type of hearing aid, the battery size and a range of other factors:
- Hearing Aid Type: Digital hearing aids, which offer advanced features, often consume more power compared to conventional analog aids, resulting in shorter battery life.
- Volume and Usage: Frequent use at higher volume settings naturally drains batteries faster.
- Battery Size: Generally, batteries used for small concealed hearing aids will have a shorter life. For instance, a size 10 battery may last about three to seven days, while a larger size 13 battery could last up to fourteen days.
- Environmental Factors: Just like other technical devices like your phone or PC, extreme temperatures and humidity can affect battery performance.
So, how long do batteries last in hearing aids? As you can see, there’s no simple answer; while generally speaking hearing aid batteries can last anywhere from three to twenty-two days, this figure can change based on the factors above.
Types and Sizes of Hearing Aid Batteries
It’s also important to understand that there are primarily two types of hearing aid batteries available in the market: zinc-air batteries and rechargeable batteries. Zinc-air batteries are the most commonly used; they’re air-activated, disposable, and come in various sizes, identified by their colour-coded labels:
- Size 10 (Yellow)
- Size 312 (Brown)
- Size 13 (Orange)
- Size 675 (Blue)
On the other hand, rechargeable batteries are increasingly popular due to their sustainability and ease of use; they can also be recharged daily, making them a convenient and environmentally friendly option for many who rely on hearing aids.
Whether or not you opt for zinc-air batteries or rechargeable batteries will typically depend on your lifestyle, the type of hearing aids that you have, as well as your own personal preferences when it comes to sustainability.
When to Replace Your Hearing Aid Batteries
So, how do you know when it’s time to replace your hearing aid batteries? Here are just a few indicators:
Diminished Sound Quality
One of the primary indicators that it's time to replace your hearing aid batteries is a noticeable drop in sound quality: this may manifest as distorted or muffled sounds, which usually means that the battery is no longer able to provide the necessary power for optimal function.
Decreased Volume
Another sign that your hearing aid batteries need replacing is when you constantly need to increase the volume beyond your usual setting; unless your hearing is declining - which would warrant a trip to your GP - this decreased volume efficiency tends to be a clear indicator that the batteries are running low.
Spontaneous Shutdowns
If your hearing aid turns off unexpectedly, you can almost guarantee that the battery is depleted. Frequent shutdowns not only disrupt your ability to hear but also signal the urgent need to replace the batteries to ensure continuous and reliable hearing aid performance.
Tips for Extending Battery Life
Like any piece of tech, there are a number of ways you can maximise the life of your hearing aid batteries. Here are a few practices you can implement to save on charge:
- Store batteries at room temperature: As we already mentioned, it’s a good idea to avoid storing hearing aids in hot or humid environments, as this can impact battery function.
- Turn off hearing aids when not in use: In the same way you don’t run up your electric bill by leaving your TV on all night, don’t run your hearing aid batteries out by wearing them constantly. When they’re not in use, turn them off.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the lifespan of your hearing aid batteries isn’t always going to be the same; if you’re a frequent user of your device and wear it 24/7, it’s normal that the battery will run out after just a few days. For those with larger batteries or those who use their hearing aids less frequently - for example, to simply watch the TV - your batteries are likely to last much longer. It’s also important to remember differences in battery sizes, models, and the type of hearing aids you wear.
And for those new to hearing aids or considering an upgrade, taking the step to learn about the various types of hearing aids available is the easiest way to find the device that works best for your needs.
