Winter tends to mean puffer jackets and cosy soup nights in South Africa, and most people do not consider how the change of season might affect their hearing aids. Temperature shifts and humidity, even during winter, can impact battery performance and daily function.
For instance, inland areas may feel drier, but along the coast, humidity can also affect your batteries for hearing aids. No matter where you are situated, small changes can go a long way in keeping your hearing aids working for longer.
Here are a few simple tips to help you care for your hearing aids this winter.
1. Keep Batteries Dry
Your batteries should be stored away from moisture, even in winter. Keeping them in warm, humid areas, like bathrooms or kitchens, can shorten the battery life. A dry drawer or storage box in a bedroom works well.
2. Air Out Batteries Overnight
Moisture in winter can be a problem in more humid areas, that’s why you need to open the battery door when your hearing aids are not in use. This helps release any moisture that may have built up during the day and prevents the battery from draining overnight.
3. Handle With Care
Clean hands can also make a huge difference in winter. Oil, sweat and debris on your hands can transfer easily, which is why when handling them, you need to clean and dry your hands so that you aren’t introducing more moisture to the box. This keeps the batteries cleaner and improves the connection inside your hearing aids.
4. Try A Dehumidifier
Winter might feel cooler, but humidity usually remains high in coastal areas. Dehumidifiers are designed to remove moisture overnight, helping prevent damage and unnecessary battery drain.
To keep your hearing aids in great condition year-round, see our top 5 care habits for ITE hearing aids for easy, everyday tips.
With the right care, hearing aids can last you between three and seven years. But unfortunately, the costs of batteries can stack up, especially when you replace non-rechargeable ones every 3 – 10 days, according to Bernafon. Simple changes and habits during cooler months can keep your hearing clearer and stress-free through winter and more.
If your batteries for hearing aids seem to run out too quickly or you are not sure which option suits your lifestyle, we are here to help. Speak to the Hearing Aid Labs team today for expert support and trusted advice on all your hearing needs.