When You Need Hearing Aid Repair: Signs to Watch Out For



Hearing aids are small electronic devices that people with hearing loss wear in or behind their ears. They work by amplifying sounds and making them easier to hear. Once you've picked out the perfect hearing aids with your doctor's help, you're all set to listen to the world again!

However, hearing aids are susceptible to damage, requiring regular maintenance (and occasional repairs) by your audiologist to ensure optimal performance.

Keep reading to discover the indicators suggesting that your hearing aid needs repair.

1. Experiencing Difficulty Hearing Conversations

If you notice any unusual changes in your hearing while wearing your hearing aid, it could indicate damage to the device. The warning signs may include:

  • Difficulty hearing sounds
  • Distorted sounds
  • Sounds are very faint

If you experience any of these problems with your hearing aid, you should seek help from your audiologist for cleaning or repair.

2. Buzzing or Ringing Sound in Your Ears

If you hear ringing or buzzing in your ear while wearing your hearing aid, it indicates potential issues that require attention. These problems could stem from a broken wire, loose battery connection, damaged earmold, or malfunctioning telecoil, which may pick up electromagnetic waves from nearby electronic devices.

3. Trouble Understanding People on the Phone

If you're having trouble hearing phone calls or understanding TV shows, your hearing aids might need fixing. Background noise on TV or difficulty hearing over talking can also mean your hearing aids need repair. A quick visit to your audiologist can sort out any issues.

4. Physical Damage to the Device

Hearing aids, being small and delicate, are susceptible to damage. Cracks in the tubing or shell indicate the need for repairs, but some damage might not be visible. Even tiny cracks can affect performance, so it's wise to consult your audiologist if your hearing aid isn't working as expected.

5. Device Switches Off Automatically

Does your hearing aid switch off unexpectedly, leaving you in silence? Intermittent cutting out is a significant sign of potential damage. If the device doesn't turn on, start by checking the battery. If replacing or charging it doesn't work, you'll need specialized repairs for circuit damage. Depending on the severity, your audiologist may recommend a replacement.

6. Increase in Background Noise When Wearing Your Hearing Aids

If you find that the hearing aids no longer reduce background noise as they once did, they may not be functioning properly, and professional maintenance or repair will be required.

7. Having Trouble with the Volume of Your Hearing Device

If you're having problems adjusting the volume, or are noticing inconsistent adjustments, there could be an internal issue. Consult your audiologist for diagnostics and potential repairs or replacement.

8. Ear Wax Build-up in Hearing Aids

It's normal to have a small amount of wax in your ear canals, which protects and moisturizes your ears while preventing bacterial growth. However, if your hearing aids aren't functioning correctly, ear wax build-up inside the devices could be to blame. A deep cleaning can often resolve this.

Final Takeaway

Discover the signs indicating your hearing aids may need repairs. Each indicator highlights potential issues, from difficulty hearing conversations to buzzing or ringing sounds. Physical damage, automatic shutdowns, increased background noise, volume adjustment problems, and earwax build-up also signal necessary repairs. Prompt action and professional assistance from an audiologist ensure optimal hearing aid performance and safeguards communication and hearing health.

Restore Your Hearing Aid's Performance with Hoffmann Audiology

Empower your hearing with our expert audiology services. Hoffmann Audiology provides comprehensive hearing aid evaluations and personalized solutions to meet individual needs. Contact us today if you or your loved one is experiencing hearing difficulties.

Related Posts:

Exploring the Lifespan: How Long Do Hearing Aids Last?

How Often Should You Replace Hearing Aids? 

10 Common Hearing Aid Myths and Facts


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Chris Lin Hoffmann

Dr. Chris Hoffmann is an audiologist who has been involved in hearing sciences for over 20 years. Her passion for helping people with their hearing led her to establish Hoffmann Audiology hearing clinic. Dr. Hoffmann has more than 14 years of clinical knowledge in hearing testing, hearing aid fittings, and aural rehabilitation.

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