Hearing aid batteries
Today, there are two major types of batteries for hearing aids: Rechargeable batteries and disposable batteries.
Rechargeable hearing aid batteries
Rechargeable batteries are available and can be used in certain types of hearing aids. Rechargeable batteries are becoming more and more common. Still more hearing aids are available with rechargeable batteries.
Typically, the batteries are recharged in a special charger at night when the hearing aids are not in use, but you can recharge them when needed or they are out of battery, just like you recharge your smartphone.
Rechargeable batteries are not meant to be replaced and are integrated into the hearing aid.
If something is wrong with the batteries and they do not charge properly, you should take your hearing aids to your hearing care professional.
Disposable hearing aid batteries
The other type of batteries are disposable batteries, which must be replaced when they are out of power. Disposable batteries for hearing aids are zinc-air batteries. Today, hearing aid batteries are mercury free but in earlier models there could be traces of mercury in hearing aid batteries.
Please note that disposable hearing aid batteries must always be recycled. Do not throw them in the garbage bin. They pollute the environment, if not recycled.
Battery sizes
There are different battery sizes for hearing aids, so you need to know which battery size you need. To help you there is an international colour and number coding for each battery size (yellow (10), brown (312), orange (13) and blue (675)).
How long does a hearing aid battery last?
A standard battery for a hearing aid lasts between 5 and 14 days, depending on the type of hearing aid, capacity, type of battery, how much the hearing aid is used and the degree of the hearing loss. More amplification needs more power. Finally, Bluetooth also needs power from the batteries. In some cases, they may last for a shorter period, in other cases they can last more than 14 days.
Hearing aid batteries can lose power very suddenly. Therefore, it is advisable to carry extra sets of batteries with you. The hearing aids typically let you know when the batteries are out of power.
Always make sure that the battery seal is unbroken as a hearing aid battery begins to discharge as soon as the protective seal is removed.
Zinc-air batteries should also be given a little time to “charge up” before they can be used. These batteries need air to work and it takes about a minute before the air has reacted to the zinc in the battery.
Always make sure that the battery seal is unbroken as a hearing aid battery begins to discharge as soon as the protective seal is removed. Always purchase unopened packages.
Always also keep hearing aid batteries away from small children and pets. They can swallow them and they can be toxic. If this should happen, seek medical help immediately.
Longer battery life
How do you extend battery lifetime? How to make the hearing aid batteries last longer.
Here are seven battery tips:
- Leave the hearing aid batteries in their packaging until you need to use them
- Store hearing aid batteries at room temperature, not in the refrigerator
- At night when you sleep, turn the hearing aid off and open the battery compartment. This reduces the risk of condensation and preserves the battery's power.
- Only remove the coloured strip when you need to use them. This will protect the battery from oxidation.
- Do not put the coloured strip back on, as this can damage the battery.
- Do not store hearing aid batteries in your pocket.
- Do not let hearing aid batteries come into contact with metal objects such as coins.
Please also note that:
- Low or high temperatures lower battery lifetime.
- High altitude with reduced percentage of oxygen (thin air) lowers the battery voltage, making it reach end point earlier.