The fact that you’re reading this guide speaks volumes about your compassion and commitment as a caregiver. Whether your loved one has recently been fitted with hearing aids, you're stepping into a caregiving role for the first time or you're troubleshooting a device issue, your support is invaluable. Even if they can’t always express it, your efforts help your loved one stay connected to the world – and to you.
🛠️ Understanding Hearing Aid Maintenance
Routine maintenance is essential to ensure hearing aids function optimally. Fortunately, all of HearingLife’s locations offer walk-in hours or scheduled times for device cleaning and support. This is a convenient option for caregivers who prefer not to handle maintenance themselves. If you choose to clean the devices at home, we can provide the necessary tools and demonstrate proper techniques tailored to your loved one’s specific hearing aids.
Important Hearing Aid Precautions
- Avoid exposing devices to water or high humidity.
- Do not apply hairspray or other aerosols while wearing hearing aids. Remove them first, spray and then put them back in.
- Handle devices with clean, dry hands.
- If hearing aids get wet, find out what to do here.
- If hearing aids get lost, find out what to do here.
- For help with the Oticon Companion App, click here.
Battery Management for Hearing Aids
Rechargeable devices: Place them on the charger nightly. Ensure the charger is plugged into a stable power source—not a light switch-controlled outlet—and kept in a dry room away from moisture-prone areas like bathrooms or kitchens.
Disposable batteries: These typically last between 4 days and 3 weeks, depending on size and usage. Most hearing aids emit a warning tone or speak when the battery is low. If not, the device will simply stop working. Always keep spare batteries on hand.
Battery Replacement:
- Always match the correct battery size and color code. For example, a brown tab typically indicates size 312 or 345.
- When inserting a new battery, align the positive and negative ends correctly—just as you would with any standard battery. The sticker side represents the positive terminal, and many battery compartments are marked with a small "+" symbol to guide placement.
- If you're unsure, match the orientation of the battery you are taking out with the one you are putting in.
Important: Do not remove the sticker on the battery until you're ready to use it. Once the sticker is peeled off, the battery begins to discharge.
Pro Tip: Put the battery sticker on a calendar to track when it was last changed.
When and How to Clean Hearing Aids
Daily Care Tips for Hearing Aids
- Cleaning: Use a soft brush or cloth—usually included in the care kit—to gently remove debris. Never use water or cleaning fluids, as moisture can damage the electronics.
Hearing aids generally require professional cleaning every 4–6 months, or sooner if performance issues arise. If a device stops working, it often just needs a quick cleaning.
Cleaning In-the-Ear (ITE) Devices
- Wax Guards: These are the primary component to replace. If you’re out of wax guards or don’t have them, your local HearingLife can supply more.
- Manual Cleaning: Use a soft toothbrush to gently brush the part that goes into the ear, holding the device downward so debris falls away from the electronics.
- Function Test: After cleaning, cup the device in your hand and listen for feedback. If you hear the feedback squeal, have your loved one try the device again.
Cleaning Behind-the-ear (BTE) Devices
Earmolds and Tubing: Some BTE models feature custom earmolds connected by clear tubing. These components should be regularly inspected for:
- Moisture accumulation: Condensation inside the tubing can obstruct sound transmission.
- Stiffness or discoloration: Hardened or discolored tubing may indicate wear and should be replaced.
If any of these signs are present, schedule a visit to your HearingLife office for professional replacement.
Replacing Domes and Filters
Other behind-the-ear devices use soft silicone domes and internal wax filters:
- Dome Inspection: Domes resemble small, rounded caps that sit inside the ear canal. If the dome is clogged with earwax, the hearing aid may stop functioning properly. Try replacing the dome and wax trap if your hearing aid is not working.
- Feedback Test: Remove the dome and cup the device in your hand to check for feedback (a whistling sound). This helps determine if the device is still producing sound.
- Dome Replacement: Used domes should never be reused. Dispose of the old dome and replace it with a new one from your supply. If you’re out of replacements, contact your hearing center for assistance.
- Proper Fit: When attaching a new dome, ensure it is securely fastened to prevent it from dislodging inside the ear canal.
For video instructions on all the above, check out our playlist on YouTube >
Quick Hearing Aid Function Check
To test if a hearing aid is working:
- Cup it in your hand.
- Listen for a high-pitched whistling sound (feedback).
This sound usually indicates the battery is active and the device is emitting sound. However, if your loved one still cannot hear, schedule an office visit. Possible causes include:
- Earwax buildup in the person’s ear
- Device malfunction
- Changes in hearing loss
If there’s no feedback sound, the device may be clogged with wax and require cleaning.
By staying informed and proactive, you play a vital role in your loved one’s hearing health. Maintaining hearing aids requires attention to detail, but with the right tools and support, caregivers can confidently manage these tasks. If you ever feel unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out to your hearing care provider - they’re there to support both you and your loved one every step of the way.
If your loved one is in need of compassionate hearing care, schedule a free hearing test and consultation at HearingLife. We are happy to assist caregivers in understanding the hearing support your loved one needs, show you how to care for their hearing aids and partner with you in their journey to better hearing.
