How to care for your hearing aids this autumn

Meteorological autumn started on Sunday 1 September and lasts until Saturday 30 November. As the weather gets colder, you should try and take extra care of your hearing aids.

Unless you’re working outside for many hours in the freezing cold, it’s highly unlikely that your hearing aids will be affected by the low temperature. The real problem is caused by the condensation which occurs when you go from being outside in the cold, to coming inside your warm and cosy home.

It’s easier than you think to work up a sweat when you’re outdoors in the autumn, especially if you’re doing something active like clearing leaves from your drive, taking part in sport or even going for a brisk walk. Unless you’ve got a water-resistant hearing aid, moisture can be its worst enemy. Humidity, perspiration, condensation or accidentally dropping your hearing aid in the sink or shower can; ruin the microphone and receiver, clog the earmould tubing and sound outlet and cause corrosion.

Here are some signs your hearing aid may have been damaged by moisture:

• Your hearing aid cuts out during loud noises
• Your hearing aid stops working, then suddenly begins working again
• Sound seems to fade, or come and go
• Sound is accompanied by static
• Sounds are unclear or distorted

If you have any of these problems with your hearing aids, turn them off and remove the batteries. Since many of these problems can be caused by batteries which need replacing, try putting in some new ones. Remove any moisture from where the batteries touch the hearing aids with a dry cotton swab first. Check to make sure the earmould and sound outlet aren’t clogged with wax and the tubing isn’t frayed or cracked.

If your hearing aid still doesn’t work, you could try:

• Buying a hearing aid drying kit or dehumidifier and following the directions
• Putting it on newspaper to air-dry for at least 24 hours
• Sealing your hearing aid in a plastic bag containing 190g of uncooked rice - rice can work like a dehumidifier and soak up any water from your hearing aid
• Use a fan or hairdryer on its lowest setting - do not use high heat

If your hearing aid isn’t working after trying one or more of these suggestions, get in touch with the Hearing Aid Repair Shop.