Your hearing aids represent a significant investment in time, effort and money. Because of this, you’ll want to do everything in your power to take care of them to ensure they provide you with good hearing for as long as possible. Learn more about why your hearing aids need extra protection this winter and how to keep them safe.
Winter Weather Warning
While Dallas may not be known for its cold weather, the snowfall we had a few days ago shows that anything is possible. No temperature extremes are good for the delicate technology housed within hearing aids, but the cold poses a risk specifically in regard to sapping the batteries as well as causing moisture damage.
The cold itself may not damage the internal components, but the condensation that builds up when your hearing aids are exposed to temperature changes certainly can. Even if it isn’t snowing or raining, moisture may be present thanks to extreme temperature changes every time you leave your heated house to venture outdoors to Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary.
Signs of Damage from Moisture
The parts of your hearing aid that are especially vulnerable to moisture damage include the microphone, receiver and earmold tubing. Some signs your hearing aids have been damaged by moisture include:
- Your hearing aid cutting out for a loud noise
- Sound fading in and out
- Static
- Distorted/unclear sound
- Your hearing aid entirely not working, even if it eventually starts back up again
What to Do if You Have Moisture Damage
If your think your hearing aids have been damaged by moisture, there are several things you can check before bringing them in to your audiologist for repair:
- Make sure your hearing aid is turned on and the t-switch is in the correct position.
- If your device uses disposable batteries, make sure they’re in correctly and not corroded. If you see a white powdery substance, throw out the batteries immediately.
- Wipe off your battery contacts – the points where the batteries touch the devices – with a dry cloth or cotton swab.
- See if the earmolds and domes are clogged with wax or contain visible moisture.
If you have one, the best thing you can do for your hearing aids is put them in a dehumidifier each night. If this doesn’t resolve your issues, bring your devices in to be checked by your audiologist. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Total Hearing Care of Dallas today.
