Hearing Aid Batteries

There are many styles of hearing aids available, but they have at least one thing in common: they all need batteries to function.

Understanding your hearing aid batteries is important. With proper care and maintenance, you can extend your battery life expectancy and ensure your hearing aids are operating at their maximum performance levels.

Types of Hearing Aid Batteries

Zinc-air

Zinc-air batteries are the most common hearing aid battery. Zinc-air technology requires oxygen to produce power. The batteries are activated when the pull-tab is peeled off and oxygen starts the activation process. There is a different type and size of zinc-air battery for each type and style of hearing aid. Your hearing care provider will explain which type and of battery will work in your hearing aid.

Rechargeable

Rechargeable hearing aid batteries can be recharged when not in use. Rechargeable battery technology means batteries last longer between charges and maintain a consistent power drain throughout the time of use. One of the shortfalls of rechargeable batteries is the need for replacement every couple of years as the battery life diminishes from repeat charges. This is an expense the user should prepare for. On the plus side, they eliminate the need to carry around batteries, and many of the newer hearing aids with rechargeable batteries can also work with zinc-air batteries.

Caring for Hearing Aid Batteries

Improper battery care can lead to a shorter lifespan and reduced functionality. Proper care starts well before you start using a new hearing aid battery. Follow these guidelines on storage, installation, and maintenance to keep your hearing aids operating at their peak performance levels.

Store batteries at room temperature.
Batteries will last longer if they’re stored between 50 and 77 degrees in a low-humidity, low-moisture area. Avoid extreme heat (like the car in summer), cold (like the refrigerator), and moisture (like the bathroom).

Allow batteries to absorb oxygen for at least one minute before insertion.
Since zinc-air batteries need oxygen to produce power, putting them into your hearing aid too quickly can reduce their lifespan and charge.

Keep batteries away from metallic objects.
Being stored in close proximity to metal objects can cause batteries to short circuit or lose charge. Be sure to keep batteries separate from objects like keys and coins during storage and use.

Clean your batteries and battery compartments regularly.
Dirty, dusty, or greasy batteries, battery compartments, and battery contacts can cause your hearing aids to work poorly or stop functioning all together. Clean gently using the brush on your cleaning tool.

Open your battery compartment overnight.
You should open the battery compartment every night for two reasons. First, it will help conserve power, increasing the useful life of your batteries. Second, it will allow moisture trapped in the battery compartment to evaporate, preventing corrosion on the contacts. Following these steps is also an essential part of good hearing aid maintenance.