Hearing aids are made of microelectronics and high-tech circuit boards, so heat, moisture, and dust can potentially damage them. Especially during the summer, heat and moisture put them at risk of shortened battery life, poor sound quality, or improper functioning.
Even though many hearing aids have rubber seals and a water-resistant nano-coating that protect them from some moisture, they are not completely waterproof. You will need to protect your hearing device from heat and humidity to maximize its function and durability. It is recommended that you remove your hearing aids while showering, swimming, or in the sauna.
Here are some tips to protect your hearing aids from heat and moisture:
Clean your hearing aids every day to keep them free of moisture, wax, and debris. At a minimum, wipe your hearing aids with a soft dry cloth to remove oils, perspiration, and wax. This is best done at night or when you are done using them for the day.
If your hearing aids use disposable batteries, open the battery door to allow the battery compartment to completely dry. This will lessen the chance of corrosion of the battery contacts and the electronic components in your device.
You can buy a hearing aid dehumidifier to protect your devices from moisture when you are not wearing them. These specially designed dehumidifiers use a desiccant to draw excess moisture out of the hearing aids and protect them from corrosion and water damage. Simply place your hearing aids inside the dehumidifier after you have cleaned them and seal the container.
You can buy a heat and fan system to keep your hearing aids dry. This system uses warm air to dry the hearing aid. Some heat and fan systems come with the UV light, which can sanitize the hearing aid and keep it bacteria-free. This is especially recommended for individuals prone to developing ear infections or have drainage from their ears.
Hearing aids are not waterproof, and moisture can cause damage to the electronic components. To minimize water damage, you can buy or make hearing aid covers that can protect your hearing aids from rain and moisture as well as dust and dirt.
Some components of your hearing aids are made of plastic and electronics, which may be sensitive to heat. Avoid prolonged exposure to heat, as it can damage those components. When hearing aids are not in use, make sure to store them in an area with minimal temperature fluctuations.
Hearing aids should be professionally cleaned every six months, or as recommended by an audiologist near you. Your audiologist will inspect your hearing aids and use special tools to clean them. They will also check the functioning of your hearing aids and make adjustments to them if warranted.
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Chris Hoffmann for professional hearing aids cleaning and maintenance.
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