Which is the Best Battery for Hearing Aids?

When discussing the best battery for hearing aids, one of the first things you need to consider is the type of hearing aid you are using. There are different styles of hearing aids for varying levels of hearing loss. Another factor is how often the hearing aid is used for and how long realistically you need the battery to last for. An incorrectly fitted battery or underperforming battery can really have an impact on the wearer's experience when wearing the aid.

Remember, hearing aids are to help assist with hearing loss. As ENT specialists, we have a staff of doctors and ear, nose and throat specialists who can help you to correctly diagnose the type of hearing loss you are experiencing and fit you with the best hearing aid for your needs. There is no need to experience poor hearing or even full or partial hearing loss. There is a range of hearing aids on the market suitable for various hearing loss levels and can be worn in different ways on or in the ear.

Hearing aids

Knowing the type of hearing aid, you are using will serve you well when it comes to finding the correct battery. As will understanding how much of an impact the aid has on your life. Some people prefer to use their aid in louder, noisier surroundings only, others may need to wear the aid full time. The type of hearing aid you need will be discussed with you at your appointment with one of our specialist doctors:

• Behind the ear (BTE)
• Mini BTE
• BTE with earmolds
• In the ear (ITE)
• Invisible in canal (IIC)
• Completely in canal (CIC)
• In the canal (ITC)
• Receiver in canal (RIC)

Finding the right battery for your hearing aid

There are four sizes of a battery cell that are for use in hearing aids:

• Size 13
• Size 10
• Size 312
• Size 675 

The lifespan of each battery can vary depending on the manufacturer. But typical hours of lifespan for the batteries are typical as follows:

• Size 13: 240-300 hours
• Size 10: 240-276 hours
• Size 312: 156-204 hours
• Size 675: 240 to 372 hours.

Caring correctly for your hearing aid battery can help you preserve and extend your battery's lifespan, allowing you to maximize usage daily. Batteries can last from anywhere to a few weeks to a few months and factors such as the frequency you use your hearing and the length of time per day you wear your hearing. For the best performance, it is advisable to get the highest quality battery available to extend battery life and preserve the condition of your hearing aid.

Hearing aid batteries are generally zinc air, meaning the zinc activates the battery when it meets the air. To prevent this, there is usually a pull tab on the battery. Once this is removed, the zinc reacts with the air to power the battery. For this reason, try not to remove the tab before you need to use the battery. Once removed, the tab cannot be replaced.

Incorrect use of batteries can harm how well your hearing aid works. Always take care to follow correct guidance when inserting and removing hearing aid batteries:

• Always store your batteries at room temperature. Do not expose batteries to extreme heat or cold.
• Replace batteries after you sense that amplification has become diminished or the sound is distorted. Continuing to use drained batteries can harm your hearing aid irreparably.
• Open the battery draw to remove moisture overnight and help extend your battery health.
• Replace batteries with clean hands as any dirt on them may harm your hearing device.

If you are unsure of how to insert and remove your hearing aid battery correctly, it is imperative that you consult one of our ENT doctors to help guide you through the process. Damage to your hearing and the battery can occur from improper battery insertion.

Find out more

If you are worried about your hearing or would like to discuss any concerns you have for yourself or a family member, then our expert team is on hand to assist you today. Call us today at (402) 983-9948 to arrange an appointment with ENT Specialists and start taking care of your hearing now. We can help guide you through your concerns with hearing loss and what the next steps are to preserve your hearing.