5 FAQs about Hearing Aid Repairs

When you own a car, you expect to service it regularly so that it runs efficiently, reliably and safely. The better the vehicle is maintained and cared for, the more years of trouble-free motoring you enjoy.

What does this have to do with hearing aids?

Well, modern hearing aids require a little TLC on a regular basis, in order to reduce the chances of them breaking. However, as time goes by it’s perfectly normal for a device to need minor adjustments or even repairs. So let’s answer five FAQs about hearing aid repairs.

1. Why do hearing aids need repairs?

The most common reason a device needs attention is due to earwax. The latter has a habit of getting into tubing and earmolds, blocking them and interfering with sound transmission.

Earwax accounts for around 75 percent of all repairs, but happily is something you can look out for at home. Simple preventatives like regular ear cleaning can decrease the amount of wax and reduce the number of blockages. In addition, inexpensive hearing aid cleaning kits come with a small hook that helps to remove wax from the inlet of an earmold.

Of the remaining causes, a problem with the electronic circuitry is high on the list. This can need to be reprogrammed or replaced, and is best dealt with by an expert.

2. Where do I take my hearing aid for repair?

The best person to see for hearing aid repairs is the hearing professional who sold you the device.

Minor issues such as cracked tubing will be dealt with on site, and for more major problems your hearing care provider will know the right professional to best deal with the repair.

3. How often are hearing aid repairs needed?

This depends on what type of device you have and how well you care for it.

For maximum performance gently clean your hearing aid each night and use a special dehumidifier to prevent condensation buildup. (These are inexpensive and widely available.) Keep the device away from perfume, spray deodorants and hairspray; and take care not to drop it.

Smaller devices, such as receiver-in-canal models, are less robust and more likely to need regular attention.

4. How much do hearing aid repairs cost?

Ironically, older devices may cost more to repair than current ones, because parts can be difficult to come by.

Expect to pay more for repairs if the device must be sent back to the manufacturer. Prior to authorizing a repair, it is a good idea to ask for an estimate. That way you know what to budget for, and then decide if it’s more cost effective to invest in a new device.

5. Are extended hearing aid warranties or insurance worthwhile?

Most new hearing aids are warranted against faults and workmanship for one year. It can be worth the peace of mind to extend this warranty so that you don’t need to worry if it fails shortly after this period, especially if you can pay for the warranty in monthly installments.

If you still have questions regarding having your hearing aid repaired, contact your hearing specialist to discuss any and all concerns.