Your hearing aids are like any other device: they need care, cleaning and occasional repair to last as long as possible. If you’re already cleaning your hearing aids frequently and replacing the batteries regularly, you’re already doing the most important part of the job.
When basic care is not enough, your hearing aid may need repairs. Here are the signs to watch for, so you’re always on top of your hearing aid care:
- Physical damage: When you notice clear physical damage to your hearing aids, like cracks, tears, broken parts or other problems, you’ll need to have them repaired or replaced right away.
- They stop working completely: It’s troubling when your hearing aids stop working—especially when you have to rely on them to navigate everyday life. Before you head to the hearing aid center, make sure it’s not a battery issue. Next, check the tubing for cracks and clogs. If, however, your hearing aids still won’t power on even when you’ve replaced the battery, cleaned the tubing and cleaned the battery contacts, it’s time to take them in for repairs.
- You notice whistling or feedback: This is often a sign of a fit issue, but it can also mean that there’s an issue with your tubing. First, try reinserting your hearing aids to see if that solves the problem. If not, check the tubing to see if there are any cracks or tears. That’s a sign that you’ll need to take the hearing aid in for repairs. Otherwise, the whistling noise could be caused by excess earwax in your ear canal. See a doctor for removal options.
- The volume isn’t loud enough: When the volume isn’t loud enough, check the tubing. If there are cracks, clogs or condensation, that can interfere with your hearing. Make sure to check the volume settings and programs to ensure you haven’t accidentally adjusted the settings.
- You’re having intermittent issues: Sometimes our hearing aids work fine one minute, fail the next and seem like they’ve gone back to normal in a few minutes. If this has been a problem for you, it may be a sign of a battery problem. Replace the batteries and see if that solves the issue. If not, visit your local hearing aid center for help diagnosing and addressing the problem.
- You hear static frequently: Static is often a sign that too much moisture has built up in the device. Take your hearing aids to your audiologist right away—it will prevent more damage from occurring. You may need to replace your hearing aids entirely.
- Your hearing has declined: Finally, it may simply be that your hearing has declined. If that’s the case, your audiologist may be able to test your hearing aids and reprogram them for your new hearing levels.
If you’ve noticed any of these signs of a need for hearing air repair, taking action quickly is the best way to ensure the swift restoration of your hearing abilities. When you need hearing aid repairs, visit the team at Vancouver Hearing Aid Center.