Answers to many commonly asked questions about hearing aid batteries.
- Can I use any size battery in my hearing aid?
When you purchase your hearing aid you will be told what battery size to use. Make sure to always use the correct size! Battery size is often written on the Hearing Aid Purchase Agreement, or refer to the old battery container to be sure you get the correct size.
- Are all hearing aid batteries the same?
The 4 standard battery sizes hold varying amounts of fuel. Hearing Aid battery fuel capacity is rated by the Milli-Amperes/Hours (mA), or the number of milli-amperes used per hour. Premium/Heavy Duty batteries contain more fuel chemical than Standard aids. They last as much as 3-5 days longer. When you buy batteries, be sure to confirm whether the batteries are Standard or Premium. Batteries sold in drug stores where the cost is advertised are usually standard batteries. - How many batteries should I purchase at one time?
It depends on how long the batteries last in your hearing aid, but a good rule of thumb is to purchase no more than a 6-month supply. For example, if your hearing aid uses 2 batteries per month then purchase 12 batteries per hearing aid for a 6-month supply. - How can I save money on my batteries?
Newport Audiology Centers has a Premium Battery Purchasing Club that allows you to purchase premium/heavy duty batteries by phone or by mail. (Just call 1-866-228-6811 or use the coupon below) This is a very convenient and cost-saving way to buy your premium batteries! No postage or handling fees! - Have hearing aid batteries improved over the years?
Old mercury batteries, which were used in hearing aids in the past, started to lose power as soon as they were assembled. Very few mercury batteries are sold today.
Newer hearing aid batteries, called Air-Cells, use Zinc oxide and require air to activate. Air-Cells have small colored tabs covering the air inlet holes on the positive (+) side of the battery cell. After you remove the tab, the oxygen (air) enters the battery cell and starts the chemical reaction, creating the battery power. Do not remove the tab until you are ready to insert the battery into your hearing aid. - What do the tab colors mean?
Hearing aid batteries come in four different sizes with a corresponding color tab:SIZE COLOR Ave. Battery Life* 10 yellow 5-7 days 312 brown 9-14 days 13 orange 12-30 days 675 blue 8-21 days * For a battery used 12 hours per day
- Should I carry spare batteries with me?
Yes. Always carry the batteries in a container in your pocket or purse that will not allow them to touch each other and begin to discharge. Even used or dead batteries can cause a new battery to discharge or short out if they make the correct contact. - Should I replace both hearing aid batteries at the same time?
This is generally a good idea, if both hearing aids use the same size battery. Most of the time the batteries will go dead fairly close to each other in the same size and style of hearing aid. It is best to change the batteries on a regular schedule rather than waiting for the hearing aid to fail to prevent them going dead in the middle of an important conversation or phone call. - Can you buy rechargeable hearing aid batteries?
A few manufacturers make rechargeable batteries. They can be expensive, require a battery charger, and often only last 8-10 hours per charge. They must be recharged every night and replaced annually. - How do I know if my hearing aid battery is dead?
If your hearing aid does not work most often your battery is dead. The hearing aid may sound less clear or have a static sound when the battery is weak or almost drained. If the hearing aid appears dead and you try a new battery and it still is dead, do not keep trying new batteries. Try the battery in the other hearing aid to determine if the problem is with the battery or the hearing aid. If this does not help, the hearing aid may be plugged with wax or debris or need repair. - Can I make the batteries last longer?
Opening the battery door at night to disconnect the circuits will prolong the life of the battery.
Never keep your batteries in your car glove box. Air-Cell batteries should not be exposed to temperatures below 32 degrees or above 125 degrees. Cars heat up to extremely high temperatures in the sun.
Check the expiration dates when you change batteries. Make sure you use the oldest ones first.
Buy Premium/Heavy Duty batteries that last longer. - Should I store batteries in the refrigerator?
No, do not store the newer Air-Cell batteries in the refrigerator. The moisture may activate them or cause them to rust. Store them in a drawer out of the reach of small children and pets. Hearing aid batteries contain chemicals that can be toxic. Please choose a secure place to store them.
WE AT NEWPORT AUDIOLOGY CENTERS hope this information is helpful to you. Please remember we welcome the referral of all family and friends and invite them to take advantage of the following:
- Hearing tests for seniors at no charge *
- Hearing-aid evaluations at no charge *
- Substantial discounts on hearing aids
- Written report sent to your physician for your medical records, upon your request
*A co-payment may apply on first visit only depending upon health plan affiliation.
PURCHASE OF AN AID INCLUDES AT NO CHARGE:
- 2-3* year comprehensive warranty covers loss & damage (Small deductible for total loss)
- 1-year supply of batteries (up to 48 batteries per aid purchased)
- 30-day evaluation/satisfaction period
- Lifetime in-office servicing
- Unlimited adaptation counseling
* Number of years depends upon plan affiliation
TO FIND AN OFFICE NEAR YOU OR TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT PLEASE CALL: 1-800-675-5485. THE BATTERY HOTLINE is: 1-866-228-6811
AS TIME PASSES…
All things change over time. If you have noticed any of the following it may be time for a visit to your audiologist:
- You are turning your hearing aid full on or barely on to hear well
- You are changing the batteries more often than before
- You see wax in the aid but are unable to reach it or clean it out
- You have not had a hearing test in the past two years
- Your hearing aid warranty is about to expire
- Your family is complaining that you are not hearing well
Please call Newport Audiology for an appointment at 1-800-675-5485 For batteries call our BATTERY HOTLINE at: 1-866-228-6811
