Hearing Aid Batteries: Size and Information
Hearing aid batteries are an essential part of your hearing aids. Without batteries, your hearing aids won't be powered and won't work. There are different types and sizes of batteries that are used for different models of hearing aids.
Batteries for hearing aids are much smaller than typical batteries by necessity. That's because hearing aids are very small devices. Despite their size, hearing aid batteries are able to power very technologically advanced hearing aids.
Safely caring for your hearing aid batteries
Handling and storing hearing aid batteries properly extends their life and prevents damage to the aids:
- Store batteries in a safe, room-temperature location.
- Avoid hot, humid areas and do not refrigerate.
- Wash hands before touching batteries to prevent contamination.
- Keep batteries away from metal objects.
- Remove dead batteries promptly to avoid corrosion.
- Clean your hearing aids regularly for optimal performance.
Extending the life of your hearing aid battery
To maximize hearing aid battery life:
- Keep battery doors open when not in use.
- Remove labels only before use.
- Use a dehumidifier overnight for your hearing aids.
- Avoid expired batteries; purchase what you'll use timely.
- Use older batteries first to prevent expiry.
Hearing Aid Battery Types
Disposable Zinc Air Batteries
Pros:
- Most hearing aid models are meant to use disposable batteries.
- They are easy to use and don't require any recharging station.
Cons:
- They aren't as environmentally friendly.
- You will need to constantly buy replacement batteries and dispose of used ones.
Rechargeable Lithium-ion Hearing Aid Batteries
Rechargeable technology is becoming more popular, but typically the batteries are not removable from the hearing aid unit. Instead of removing batteries to recharge them, you simply place the entire hearing aid in the charging station.
Lithium-ion batteries are great because they have a long shelf life. You can recharge and reuse them for a long time before needing to replace them with new batteries.
Pros:
- No need to frequently buy replacements.
- More environmentally friendly.
Cons:
- Battery replacement needs to be done by the manufacturer.
Replacing Hearing Aid Batteries
- You'll hear a warning sound when the battery is low.
- Place the battery and hearing aid on a clean, flat surface.
- Remove the battery's label and wait a few minutes before use; it's on the shiny, positive side.
- Start using the battery immediately after removing the label to prevent power loss.
- Store used batteries in a container to return to our clinic.
Instructions vary by hearing aid type; contact your clinic for help or watch our video guides for BTE and ITE models:
Disposing and donating of hearing aid batteries
When replacing hearing aid batteries:
- Safely dispose of used ones, as throwing them away may be illegal.
- Store used batteries in a sealed container to prevent loss or accidental ingestion.
- Bring old batteries to our clinic for eco-friendly recycling when getting new ones.
We accept donations of unused hearing aid batteries at our clinics for clients in need, whether due to discontinued use or a loved one's passing.
Tips for Flying with Hearing Aids and Batteries
You can safely fly with hearing aids and hearing aid batteries. However, there are some useful tips you should follow that will make your life a lot easier.
- Verify airport security rules for hearing aids and batteries.
- Pack batteries safely, away from metal objects.
- Bring extra batteries and charging station.
- Check rules for lithium ion rechargeable batteries; they're usually allowed if installed in devices.
- Zinc open-air batteries can go in checked luggage.
- Inform security about your hearing loss and batteries.
