We usually only notice technology the most when it stops working. With hearing aids that’s particularly true: Hearing aids are a crucial lifeline to the rest of society for people who wear them not just a piece of technology.

It’s both emotionally and physiologically essential to come up with solutions for malfunctioning hearing aids as quickly as possible. Whether you’ve been using your hearing aids for a week, a year, or decades, troubleshooting can be a high-stakes, frustrating process. But if you want to get your hearing aid working correctly again there are some simple steps you can take.

Preventing Problems Before They Occurs

Hearing aids are no exception to the rule, like any other piece of tech, they require routine maintenance. Despite the fact that the casing might look simple and robust, the electronics inside can be extremely sophisticated.

As a result of this you need to keep them well maintained. There are a few straight forward ways you can make certain to take care of your hearing aids while you’re using them.

Keep Your Hearing Aids Clean

Every day, a certain amount of wax is naturally and normally created by your ears. And, the ear wax is, to a certain extent good for your ears. But it’s not so good for your hearing aids. To help improve the longevity of your device keep your hearing aids clean and clear of wax. The fact is that a built-in wax filter comes standard with most hearing aids that should also be cleaned periodically.

Don’t Let Your Hearing Aids Get Wet

Electronics and moisture don’t mix. The performance of your hearing aids can be jeopardized, despite the best protection technology available, if it is continuously exposed to moisture.

This means that you should not use your hearing aids in the shower or while in the pool. In addition, if your hearing aids do become wet, towel-dry them; heat from a hairdryer, as an example, can harm your hearing aids.

Make an Appointment With Professional Cleaners

Hearing aids are sensitive (and commonly expensive) technology, and as such, they need specialized cleaning practices. Even if you’re pretty thorough about your own cleaning routines, there are just some things that can be better achieved by a specialized cleaner.

That’s why it’s suggested that you bring your hearing aids in to be cleaned every 4-6 months.

How to Diagnose Existing Issues

Protective steps are essential if your hearing aids are currently working properly. But if you’re having problems, if your hearing aids aren’t working well anymore, you’re most likely more interested in some quick fixes.

If your hearing aids aren’t functioning correctly, try one of the following steps:

• Take a good look at your hearing aids for noticeable signs of damage, such as blemishes or cracks. Such damage could mean the hearing aid needs to be repaired.
• Even if your batteries are rechargeable they will periodically need to be changed out.
• Look inside the battery compartment. Look for corrosion or loose wiring. Any extensive damage will have to be fixed by a professional but you can try cleaning off any corrosion you discover.
• Adjust the settings or switch between programs. How you respond will depend on the model because each one is different in this way.
• Cycle the device power (turn it off and turn it back on). This will correct the issue in certain cases.
• Examine your own ears. It’s possible that earwax accumulation in your ear canal is interfering with the sound from your hearing aid.
• Adjust the volume. There will be either a volume wheel on the hearing aid or a remote you can use to do this. Try both if you have both features with your hearing aid.
• Check your hearing aid for debris or wax accumulate. If you find any wax accumulation or debris, clear them away.

If none of these tips address your hearing aid problems, you will probably have to get the device fixed professionally in order to bring it back to peak functional condition.

What if Nothing I Try Helps?

You will likely have two choices if you’ve tried troubleshooting your hearing aid and it still won’t work: either send the hearing aids in for service or purchase a new set of hearing aids. The age of your hearing aids, your personal circumstances, and other factors will establish which choice will work best for you.

Take the time to troubleshoot your hearing aids if they aren’t working correctly. A discussion with a hearing professional to find a solution is the next step if that doesn’t help. Make an appointment to find a solution today.