What Causes Your Hearing Aids to Stop Working?

Anyone who wears a hearing aid should have a good understanding of how to properly care for and use it, as well as how to address common issues that may arise. Despite regular cleaning and maintenance, hearing aids can still experience problems after extended use. A common issue with hearing aids is when they stop working altogether. Understanding what might cause them to stop working is a good first step. Here are a few reasons why you hearing aids stop working.

Environmental Exposure

Hearing aids are exposed to various environmental factors that can affect their performance, like humidity, temperature changes and dust. Over time, these conditions can impact how well they function. While you can’t control these environmental factors, being mindful of how you care for your devices – like avoiding direct sunlight and cleaning them gently at night – can help protect them and extend their lifespan.

Wax Trap

The wax trap in your hearing aid plays a crucial role in preventing earwax buildup from clogging the device, but it can cause an issue if not properly maintained. Earwax can accumulate in the trap and block the sound from reaching your ear. This can lead to reduced sound quality or even complete failure of the hearing aid. If you notice a decrease in performance, checking and replacing the wax trap should be one of the first steps you take. Regularly cleaning or replacing the trap can help prevent earwax buildup from interfering with your hearing aid’s function, ensuring it continues to work as it should.

Incorrect Battery Placement

Incorrect battery placement can lead to hearing aids malfunctioning or not working at all. If the battery is not inserted properly, the connection between the battery and the hearing aid may be weak, preventing the device from turning on or operating effectively. Additionally, using the wrong type of battery, like a battery that doesn’t fit correctly, can cause similar issues. Sometimes, the battery may be inserted with the wrong side facing up, which can also disrupt the power flow and stop the hearing aid from working. It’s important to carefully follow the instructions for battery placement and always ensure that the battery is securely in place to avoid problems with your hearing aid.

Improper Storage

Improper storage of hearing aids can lead to issues that affect their performance. If you leave your hearing aids in a damp or humid environment, like a bathroom or near a window where moisture can build up, it can cause internal components to rust or corrode. Additionally, if hearing aids are left on their side without proper case protection, dust and debris can get into the device, interfering with the sound quality. For optimal care, always store your hearing aids in a dry, safe place, ideally in a protective case when not in use.

If you experience any of these issues, contact a hearing health professional. They will be able to address the issues with your hearing aids. If you want to learn more about hearing aid repairs, schedule an appointment with a hearing health professional.