Sometimes things break or malfunction. In some cases, you can fix the issue yourself, like sewing a patch onto a torn shirt. In other cases, you require professional help, like calling a plumber for a burst pipe.
Hearing aids are no different. While there are some issues only a professional should address, like opening the casing on a rechargeable hearing aid to fix the battery, there are other glitches you can fix or prevent with a bit of home maintenance.
Let’s look at a few daily maintenance basics and how to recognize when to call a Speech & Hearing Associates professional.
Daily Maintenance Basics
Do the following hearing aid care steps daily:
- Keep them clean. Wipe your hearing aids with a soft, dry cloth and use a small brush to gently remove wax or debris from the microphone and receiver openings.
- Watch for moisture. Even a small amount of moisture can interfere with performance. Consider using a dehumidifier made for hearing aids if you spend a lot of time around humid areas like the Fort Lee Community Center Pool.
- Change disposable batteries. If your hearing aids use disposable batteries, change them regularly and store extras in a cool, dry place. For rechargeable models, charge them nightly.
Common Troubleshooting Tips
A few common glitches you may be able to address at home include:
- Low or no sound. Ensure the device is turned on, the volume is up and the battery is charged. Also, check if there is wax blocking the microphone or speaker.
- Distorted sound. Clean the openings, check the battery and ensure the hearing aids are dry.
- Whistling or feedback. Reposition the hearing aid, ensure you have it correctly placed and inspect for wax buildup in your microphone or speaker.
When To Seek Professional Help
If your hearing aids still aren’t working properly after cleaning and troubleshooting, it’s time to contact your hearing specialist. They can inspect the devices, make adjustments and check your ear canals for wax buildup that could interfere with sound.
You can keep your devices working reliably with a simple daily routine and a few troubleshooting tricks. And when issues go beyond what you can fix at home, Speech & Hearing Associates is here to help.