If you have hearing aids, you probably know that they are a great tool to help you navigate the world on your own. If you have difficulty hearing, wearing hearing aids can make all the difference in letting you live the life you enjoy.
But what happens when they malfunction?
In most cases, there are easy fixes for the most frequent issues that come up with hearing aids. At California Hearing Center, our team of audiologists have compiled the below tips to help you keep your hearing aids performing at the optimal levels and resolve some common problems that may arise. With these tips you should be able to repair your hearing aids yourself in no time. You don’t need to worry that something will happen when you are traveling or when you need them most.
Common hearing aid issues and quick fixes:
The sound is distorted or low.
If the volume is not loud enough even when you adjust it:
Take a Closer Look. Dust or lint can sometimes block the sound. Make sure to clean your hearing aids regularly to prevent this issue.
Check the Battery. Damaged or corroded batteries can cause a distorted sound output. Corroded batteries can damage hearing aids, so check them frequently and replace them at the first sign of corrosion. The battery could also just be old, so try switching them out.
Humidity and Moisture may also influence how sound is perceived. Many people use a dehumidifier to extend the life of hearing aids. There are also humidifier boxes designed specifically for hearing aid storage.
Check your settings. The preferences or volume settings might have been unintentionally switched. Check the settings to make sure everything is the way you want them.
What if there is no sound?
If you don’t hear anything when using your hearing aids, try:
Checking the power. The solution is most often the simplest one. Make sure they are still powered on. The power button can sometimes be pushed when the hearing aids are being handled.
Checking the volume. Adjust the volume in case it was inadvertently pushed.
Checking the battery. The battery could be dead or damaged, so try replacing it.
Checking the receiver tube. Try cleaning the tube or other small parts of the device.
Checking the microphone. Dirt, dust, or wax could be plugging the microphone, so see if cleaning it helps.
You hear a whistling sound.
If you hear feedback, try these troubleshooting tips:
Sometimes the hearing aid is not exactly aligned in your ear canal. Try removing and reinserting the hearing aid.
If your hearing aid is new, it could be that your earpiece isn’t fitting properly. Our bodies all have slightly different shapes. Replacing the earpiece with one that is a different size or shape (or getting a custom-fit piece) may help.
Feedback can also result if the volume is turned up too high. Try turning it down a bit to see if that helps.
After a while, the tubing inside of the device may crack, so replacing it could help.
If you have tried these methods and are still experiencing issues, schedule an evaluation with your hearing doctor or audiologist. They may recommend you come into the office for a hearing aid fitting. They will also use this time to rule out or address any other issues that may be present such as earwax build up. If earwax is blocking your ear canal you may experience feedback from your hearing aid.
If the sound is not consistent…
If the volume randomly varies or the sound cuts in and out, try this:
- Reset your controls. Adjusting the preferences or settings could resolve the issue, as dust may have settled in the controls.
- Try replacing the battery, as this issue could happen if the battery is low.
- Examine the device. Dirt, wax or dust can sometimes build up in the microphone or earpiece, and regular cleaning could fix the problem.
REACH OUT TO AN AUDIOLOGIST FOR MORE INFORMATION
If you are still having issues, we recommend you bring your device to your audiologist or hearing aid provider. Most hearing aids come with warranties. Depending on the underlying malfunction, it may be possible to get the problem addressed at no cost.
It’s also possible your hearing aids may need to be replaced if they are old. Before suggesting you purchase new hearing aids, your audiologist will likely want to evaluate your hearing to make sure that it has not changed since your last screening.
Here at California Hearing Center, our hearing doctors are committed to your hearing health. Call us today to set up an appointment for a hearing screening. We can discuss hearing aid options with you and work with you to find an option that fits your budget.
OFFERING TWO LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU BETTER
With locations in San Mateo and San Carlos, CA, we have worked with individuals from Burlingame, Belmont, Millbrae, CA, and the nearby communities. Visit us today to start your journey to better hearing!
88 N. San Mateo Drive
San Mateo, California, 94401
Phone: (650) 342-9449
Fax: (650) 342-4435
Email: info@calhearing.com
1008 Laurel Street
San Carlos, California, 94070
Phone: (650) 342-9449
Fax: (650) 342-4435
Email: info@calhearing.com