The life span of hearing aid batteries depends on the number of hours that the hearing aid is being used for during the day, as well as the type of hearing aid. Some hearing aids require more power because of their additional functions. So that has to be factored in as well. The more modern digital hearing aids require more battery power than analog hearing aids. This is simply because more complicated circuits are in a digital hearing aid. Typically, battery life can range anywhere from between 5 and 14 days, depending on the use. If you use your hearing aid moderately on a daily basis and you find that your hearing aid battery is not lasting for a reasonable, then you may want to have your specialist take a look at it. Your specialist can check that the contacts are functioning properly as well as identifying whether there is any battery drain. It may be that your hearing aid specialist will have to send your hearing aid for repair.
Care should be taken when storing your hearing aid batteries. Because cell zinc-air batteries have an adhesive tab, very hot conditions can cause the tabs to loosen and allow air onto the battery thereby activating the battery. Always follow the manufacturer’s directions on how batteries should be properly stored.
Of course, as soon as the tab comes off the hearing aid battery, it is activated. So only remove the tab if you are about to replace an old battery. Don’t remove the tab to have a look at the battery! Once the tab is off and the battery is activated, the process cannot be reversed by replacing the tab. The battery will remain activated even if you replace the tab.
New batteries can be purchased from your hearing aid provider. Many outlets that have traditionally sold prescription glasses are now diversifying and are providing hearing aids as well. These are other locations from which you can purchase your hearing aid batteries. Finally, Internet shopping gives you access to a wide range of providers of hearing aid batteries. But remember to purchase the correct size for your hearing aid.
There is now a standard coding which manufacturers use to help customers choose the correct hearing aid battery size:
These are the standard Colours and Type numbers:
BLUE 675
ORANGE 13
DARK RED 312
YELLOW 10
RED 5
So, if you can’t remember the size number, bear the colour in mind and you can’t go wrong! If you are still unsure, contact your hearing specialist who will have access to your records. Just give them a ring.
author: J. Brathwaite PhD