Hearing aids provide many years of helpful service. However, regular exposure to a harsh environment means they will occasionally encounter problems. No matter how meticulous you are when it comes to hygiene, the ear canals inevitably attract dirt, moisture and earwax buildup — all of which can wreak havoc with the electronic components in your hearing aids.
Regular maintenance can help keep them in excellent working condition, but they may need servicing or repair occasionally. Wooster Ear, Nose, & Throat Associates can help. If you have tried the troubleshooting tips below and still can’t get your hearing aids to work properly, please contact us to schedule an evaluation.
Troubleshooting Your Hearing Aids
If your hearing aids aren’t working correctly, try the following techniques for a quick fix.
If there is no sound:
- Make sure the battery is inserted correctly
- Replace the battery if you suspect it is dead or weak
- Remove excess earwax from earmold or replace wax guard
- Check tubing for wax buildup or moisture; clean with blower tool
Make sure the hearing aid isn’t accidentally set to telecoil mode
If you experience feedback or whistling:
- Remove and reinsert your hearing aids
- Turn down the volume
- Make sure nothing is blocking or covering your hearing aids
- Have your doctor check your ears for excess wax and remove, if necessary
If the sound is weak or distorted:
- The battery may be dead or weak; replace it
- Open the battery compartment and clean the contacts with a dry cloth
- Clean the earmold or tubing with wax removal tools; replace wax guard
What Can I Expect to Pay for a Hearing Aid Repair?
The cost of having your hearing aids repaired depends on several factors. We must determine the following:
- Whether your hearing aids are under warranty (basic or extended)
- The extent of damage
- The price of replacement parts
- Labor charges
Should I Buy a New Hearing Aid Instead?
Depending on the cost of repairs, you might be better off investing in a new pair of hearing aids in certain cases. If your current aids are more than five years old, consider an upgrade — technological advances mean today’s digital devices are more powerful and come packed with features for improved sound quality than those a few years older.
Likewise, if the damage is extensive or your hearing aids have already gone in for repair in the past, it may not be worth paying more money when you can purchase a brand-new pair of hearing aids that should last you another five to seven years or longer.
The expert staff at Wooster Ear, Nose, & Throat Associates is happy to evaluate your hearing aids and help you decide whether having them repaired makes the most financial sense. We service all makes and models and are here to provide you with assistance.