Can Hearing Aid Repairs be Prevented?

Hearing aid manufacturers design their devices to last many years. They are, however, prone to damage if you don’t care for them properly.

Fortunately, there is a lot that you can do to prevent damage to your hearing aids, keeping them in good working order for years to come. Look at the following ways that you can avoid repairs. 

Regularly clean out excess wax in your ear canal

Hearing aid users commonly experience a buildup of wax from wearing their assistive hearing devices. The ear detects the presence of the hearing aid and begins to produce extra wax to clean it out. 

Wax, however, can block the speaker and eventually work its way into the device, damaging the sensitive internals. Preventing the buildup of wax, therefore, is essential for keeping your hearing aid in good working order. 

If you notice that your hearing aid is covered in wax from your ear, go to your audiologist. They offer treatments that can remove excessive wax. You should also regularly wipe clean your devices when you take them out at night, paying attention to the speaker opening. 

Keep your hearing aids away from moisture

You need to keep hearing aids away from moisture, just like any other electronic device. Most hearing aid manufacturers do not make waterproof devices, meaning that water can penetrate the delicate interior, causing damage to the internal components. 

Fortunately, keeping your hearing aid away from moisture is relatively easy. Do not take your hearing aids into humid environments such as saunas, showers or steam rooms. The high levels of humidity in these environments can lead to the formation of condensation on the circuits inside.

Also, always take an umbrella with you if you walk outside in the rain. Wet hair or raindrops falling on the device can damage it and cause corrosion. 

Don’t use hair products while wearing hearing aids

If you use hairspray or perfume, remember to take your hearing aids out first. Aerosol-based products can work their way into the hearing aid, clogging it up and causing moisture damage. 

Keep your hearing aids in a safe location

Hearing aids are necessarily small devices so that they can fit in your ears. Their size also makes them prone to damage. It is all too easy to accidentally step on hearing aids or knock them on the floor. 

It is best to put your hearing aids in a safe location while you’re not using them. Most people put their devices in a rigid box in a cupboard or drawer. Remember to keep your hearing aids out of the reach of children and pets. 

Looking after your hearing aids requires a little forethought and care, but once you instill good habits, it becomes surprisingly easy. Hearing aids are valuable pieces of kit, so it makes sense to put a little effort into preventing hearing aid repairs. If you want to find out more about looking after your hearing aid, then speak with your audiologist for advice and tips.