Hearing aids — like most high-tech devices — are susceptible to excess heat and moisture. Keep these five tips in mind to help ensure long-lasting performance in hot weather.
- Keep hearing aids stored in a cool, dry place.
Excess heat can harm the hearing aid circuit (the tiny computer chip that serves as the “brain” of the hearing aid). Excessive moisture can gather on the diaphragm of the microphone and/or receiver, resulting in the perception of a “dead” hearing aid. - Use a desiccant or “dry-aid” kit to keep moisture out of the hearing aids.
A desiccant is a moisture absorbing substance that is commonly found in dry goods such as shoes, clothes and electronics. There are inexpensive desiccant and dry-aid kits available from your hearing healthcare provider that are designed specifically for hearing instruments. - Store the desiccant in a sealed, dry place.
If the desiccant is exposed to the environment, it will pull moisture from it. Keeping the desiccant in a controlled environment will ensure the longest life possible of the desiccant. - If possible, keep the hearing instruments away from excessive perspiration.
As mentioned, excess moisture – including sweat – can damage hearing instruments. Starkey hearing aids can handle normal perspiration. However, if the hearing aids are exposed to excessive perspiration, it is best to remove them immediately and open the battery doors so that air can circulate through the hearing aids. You can also place them in your dry-aid kit. - Do not use any liquid to “clean” the hearing instruments – even alcohol.
Liquids can, of course, damage parts of the hearing aids, while alcohol can break down your devices. To clean your hearing aids, wipe them down with a clean, soft cloth and store them in a place that has access to air flow.
For more tips on warm-weather hearing aid maintenance, talk to your hearing healthcare professional.