When you’ve invested a piece of advanced technology such as a hearing aid, you want that device to function at 100 percent for as long as possible. Happily, you can expect most hearing aids to work well for around five years, especially when you give them a little TLC. With that in mind, here are our seven top tips to extend the life of your hearing aid.

1. Daily cleaning

At the end of each day take a moment to wipe the hearing aid over with a soft cloth. This removes dust and debris which could build up and clog the switches or dials. Also, pay particular attention to the ear mold and use a special tool (inexpensive to purchase) to hook out any wax accumulation. 

2. Clean your ears

The ear needs earwax to stay healthy, but too much of a good thing can clog up the ear mold or the fine tubing connected to the body of your device. Depending on how much wax your ear produces, it is advisable to use an ear cleaning solution recommended by your audiologist, and clean your ears around twice a mouth. Done correctly, this won’t over dry the ear canal, but will get rid of wax accumulations with the potential to gum up your device.

3. Dehumidify

Condensation and moisture are the enemy of the delicate electrical circuitry inside a hearing device. Over the course of the day the warmth of your body causes condensation to form inside the body of your hearing device.

To combat this problem, be sure to open the battery casing at the end of each day and blot away excess moisture. Better still, store the device overnight in a dehumidifier designed for the purpose. And of course, avoid taking your hearing aid into a steamy bathroom while you shower. Instead, remove and store the device in the bedroom.

4. Battery care

If you don’t use your device for whatever reason, take the battery out. This prevents corrosion due to battery leakage in storage. Also, replace the battery at regular intervals to maximize your device’s performance.

5. Avoid a soaking

Unless your model is certified as waterproof, understand that water and hearing devices don’t mix. Be sure to remove your device before showering or swimming, and if there’s a downpour protect your hearing device from the rain with an umbrella or by wearing a brimmed hat.

6. Store safely

While swimming or playing active sport, store your device in a protective container in your bag, rather than a tissue in your pocket. This prevents dust ingress and reduces the risk of accidentally putting the device through the wash. 

7. Regular servicing

Last but not least have your audiologist service the hearing device at least once a year. Fitting replacement parts for worn or damaged components will extend the life of your device.