Most hearing aids use replaceable batteries for their power. If you have these products, you know that a fresh battery supply is essential. Battery-operated hearing aids provide millions of people with the ability to hear clearly and continuously throughout their daily routines.
Hearing Aid Styles
The style of your device will determine what kind of battery is utilized. There are several types of hearing aids, with the most common options being:
- In the ear (ITE)
- In the canal (ITC)
- Completely in canal (CIC)
- Invisible in canal (IIC)
- Behind the ear (BTE)
Larger styles, like the BTE model, will typically require more battery power to sustain the needs of the device. However, smaller models, like canal-worn options, may require more frequent changes because of the reduced battery size.
Battery Sizes and Colors
Here are the battery types used for hearing aids:
- Size 10: Yellow, smallest overall diameter
- Size 312: Brown
- Size 13: Orange
- Size 675: Blue, largest overall diameter
Battery Storage and Maintenance
The longevity of your hearing aid batteries can depend on a multitude of factors, including the usage of your device and storage. Proper handling, storage and usage can provide extended use for your battery. Additionally, the size of your hearing aid and the features you utilize can impact battery life, whether it’s Bluetooth or directional microphones.
There are several recommendations for the use and storage of batteries:
- When not wearing your hearing aid, turn it off or open the battery door. Keep the door open when not in use overnight.
- If you store your hearing aid for an extended time, take the battery out completely. You can store it in the protective case for your hearing aids.
- Avoid storing batteries and hearing aids in extreme temperatures as they drain battery power and shorten a battery’s lifespan.
- Remove dead batteries promptly.
- Wait up to a minute before inserting an “air activated” battery after peeling away the protective coating.
- Dispose of all batteries properly. A guide is available to describe this and all safety facts.
The professionals at Hearing Solutions of Louisiana are happy to assist you with any questions you may have regarding hearing loss, hearing aids and battery care.
