Hearing Aid Repair

Hearing aids are remarkable pieces of technology that can drastically improve the quality of life for people with hearing loss. They help individuals reconnect with their surroundings by enhancing their ability to hear and communicate effectively.

However, just like any other piece of technology, hearing aids are subject to wear and tear, and may occasionally encounter problems. Regular maintenance can help keep them in excellent working condition, but they may need servicing or repair occasionally. Don't worry! Most hearing aid issues can be easily fixed by an audiologist, or sometimes even by yourself.

Common Hearing Aid Issues and Troubleshooting

If your hearing aids aren’t working correctly, try the following troubleshooting techniques for a quick fix:

No Sound

If you can't hear any sound from your hearing aid, you should:

1. Ensure the battery is inserted correctly.
2. Replace the battery if it's dead or weak.
3. Clean the earmold or replace the wax guard if there's excess earwax.
4. Check the tubing for wax buildup or moisture and clean it if necessary.
5. Make sure the hearing aid isn’t accidentally set to telecoil mode.

Feedback or Whistling

If you experience feedback or a whistling sound:

1. Remove and reinsert your hearing aids.
2. Turn down the volume.
3. Ensure nothing is blocking or covering your hearing aids.
4. Have an audiologist check your ears for excess wax and remove it if necessary.

Weak or Distorted Sound

If the sound from your hearing aid is weak or distorted:

1. Replace the battery if it's dead or weak.
2. Open the battery compartment and clean the contacts with a dry cloth.
3. Clean the earmold or tubing with wax removal tools; replace the wax guard.

Remember, if the problem persists after these troubleshooting steps, it's time to seek help from a professional.

Seeking Professional Help for Hearing Aid Repairs

Even with your best efforts, hearing aids may still require professional repair at some point. Here are some signs that it's time to consult a hearing healthcare professional:

1. You've tried troubleshooting, but your hearing aids still aren't working correctly.
2. You're experiencing excessive feedback or whistling, which could indicate an improper fit.
3. Your hearing aids seem irreversibly damaged or have visible cracks or holes on the shell or faceplate.

If your hearing aids need repairs, don't worry. Most hearing healthcare professionals can perform certain repairs in-house, saving you from being without your hearing aids for several days. However, in some cases, your hearing aids may need to be sent back to the manufacturer for more complex repairs.

Cost of Hearing Aid Repairs

The cost of hearing aid repairs depends on several factors:

1. Whether your hearing aids are under warranty.
2. The extent of the damage.
3. The cost of replacement parts.
4. Labor charges.

If your hearing aids are still under warranty, your repair costs will likely be minimal. Hearing aids that are no longer under warranty, or that were purchased elsewhere, may cost more to fix.

When to Consider Buying New Hearing Aids

Sometimes, the cost of repairs may make it more economical to invest in a new pair of hearing aids. If your current aids are more than five years old, consider upgrading to take advantage of the latest technological advances. Digital devices today are more powerful and offer improved sound quality compared to older models.

Moreover, if your hearing aids have extensive damage or have undergone numerous repairs in the past, it may not be worth paying more for repairs. Investing in a new pair of hearing aids could provide a more reliable and long-term solution.

Preventing Hearing Aid Damage

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to help prevent damage to your hearing aids:

Keep Your Hearing Aids Clean

Everyday use can cause a buildup of earwax and other debris in your hearing aids, potentially blocking the microphone and sound ports. This could cause feedback and reduce sound quality. To prevent this, clean your hearing aids daily with a soft cloth or a specialized cleaning tool.

Keep Your Ears Clean

Excessive earwax can clog the ports or crevices of your hearing aids, causing issues. To keep earwax to a minimum, clean your ears with a washcloth daily. However, never insert cotton swabs or other items into your ears to clean them, as this could push earwax deeper or damage your eardrums.

Keep Hearing Aids Dry

Hearing aids and moisture don't mix well. Excessive moisture can damage the electronic components of your hearing aids. To prevent this, remove your hearing aids before showering, swimming, or engaging in any activities involving water. At night, open the battery compartment to let your hearing aids air out and reduce moisture buildup.

Hearing Aid Repairs at Live Better Hearing + Balance

Hearing aids, like any other device, require regular upkeep and occasional repairs to function optimally. By understanding common hearing aid issues, learning how to troubleshoot them, and knowing when to seek professional help, you can ensure that your hearing aids serve you well for many years.

Remember, if you live in Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, or Virginia, and need professional assistance with your hearing aids, don't hesitate to reach out to Live Better Hearing + Balance. With 24 convenient locations across these states, we're always here to help you live a better life through better hearing.