Everything You Need to Know About Hearing Aid Batteries

Hearing devices require a steady power supply in order to work properly – even subtle changes in power output can affect performance, clarity, and volume control. Different hearing aids may require different types of batteries depending upon the size and power requirements of the hearing aid. Also, there are many variables that determine how long your battery will power your hearing aids.

A standard “zinc-air” battery lasts anywhere from three to 20 days, depending upon the battery size, hearing aid consumption of the battery, the capacity of the battery, and the number of hours used per day. For example, if the smallest hearing aid battery (size 10) is used for 12-16 hours per day, it will likely need replacing every three or four days. Meanwhile, if the largest hearing aid battery (size 675) is used for 5-7 hours per day, it may go several weeks without needing to be changed.

To minimize battery drain, turn off the hearing aid when it’s not in use by opening the battery door. Doing so will also assist in drying out accumulated moisture that can build up during hours of wear. However, if the hearing aids will not be used for an extended period of time, removing the battery from the battery compartment entirely is the best method to avoid corrosion.

When storing batteries for future use, keep them at room temperature (not refrigerated). Prior to changing batteries, wash your hands thoroughly to remove grease and dirt, which may drain the battery more quickly or dirty the inside of your hearing aid. When the battery dies, it should be removed immediately. A completely discharged battery may swell and become difficult to remove from the small device.

 

How Do I Change My Batteries?

There are a few ways to know when to change batteries. Some hearing aids will emit a small beeping sound when the battery is low, while some will speak to the user, stating that a change of battery is needed. Hearing aids that don’t emit warnings typically deteriorate in sound quality, become distorted, or simply stop functioning altogether. The hearing aids may become weaker before the battery dies — an indication that it’s time to change it.

Note: If a change of batteries does not alleviate this problem, the device may need cleaning, have a loose battery contact, or other issue, and it should be examined by one our our hearing care providers.

To insert or replace batteries:

  1. Open battery door using nail grip.
  2. Remove old battery (if necessary).
  3. Remove new battery from package, and pull protective tab from battery. Let the battery rest for 2 minutes before placing battery into compartment.
  4. Align “+” sign on flat side of battery with “+” sign on battery door.
  5. When battery is secure, close door.

 

Different Types of Batteries

There are four main sizes of batteries, each with a specific color-coded package: size 10 (yellow), size 13 (orange), size 312 (brown), and size 675 (blue). The battery size you need is based on the size and style of your hearing aid.

Standard hearing aid batteries are zinc-air, which are activated when exposed to air, so it is very important to keep them sealed in their package prior to use. Never open packages to move batteries to a single container; keep the packages sealed until the batteries must be used in the hearing aid, or you may end up with a dead battery when you need it! Don’t buy batteries if the seal is broken, or if the expiration date on the package is within three months of the purchase date.

 

Battery Tips:

  1. Once the tab is removed from the battery, it takes approximately 2 minutes before the battery is activated and the battery compartment can be closed.
  2. Do not force the battery door shut, as it may result in damage to the hearing aid or a broken battery compartment. If the door does not close correctly, check to see if the battery is correctly inserted.
  3. Do not force the battery door open too far, as it may result in damage.
  4. Dispose of used batteries immediately in a trash receptacle. Used batteries can harm children or pets if ingested.
  5. Use of a hearing aid multicleaning tool with a magnetic end may be helpful in handling the batteries.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

How often do I have to change my hearing aid batteries?
How often you change your hearing aid batteries will depend mostly on two things: the style of hearing aid you use and how often you use it. Many of the smaller units — the invisible units, for instance — require smaller batteries that have less power. Using these units for most hours of the day might yield only three to five days of use per set of batteries.

Batteries for larger styles, however, like behind-the-ear units, can last for weeks if used for only a handful of hours each day. Wearers of these units can typically expect their batteries to last for five to seven days if used regularly.

How much do hearing aid batteries cost?
Some hearing care providers include in the costs of hearing aids a litany of perks, like follow-up care, refittings, warranties that cover damage, and free hearing aid batteries—so you may not actually have to pay for them. Free batteries are sometimes offered for the same term as the warranty, and sometimes for a fixed amount of time.

Packs of hearing aid batteries at our office cost $8 for a pack of 8 batteries. Depending upon hearing aid style and use, total battery cost may be as little as $30 per year, or as much as $150 per year.