The trick to making hearing aids cost effective hinges on just one component–the batteries. The cost of replacing them adds up quickly and that makes it one of the largest financial concerns when buying hearing aids.

Usually the batteries quit at the worst time which is even more troubling. Even for rechargeable brands, this is a huge problem.

In order to avoid the need to exchange the batteries several times each week, you can do a few things to extend their life. Make the batteries last just a little bit longer by considering these 6 easy ideas.

1. If You’re Looking to Buy a Hearing Aid, be Smart About it

It starts when you are initially shopping for your hearing aids. Quality of brand and hearing aid features are just a couple of the factors which determine battery life. And certain batteries are better than others. Cheap components and even cheaper batteries are what defines low quality hearing aids. You’ll be changing those batteries out all the time, so be certain to discuss this with your hearing specialist.

Think about what features you need, and make some comparisons as you shop around. Wireless versions have batteries that need replacing 2 times as fast as models with wires. And the bigger hearing aids have longer lasting batteries. The smaller devices will need new batteries every couple of days, but larger units can go for up to two weeks on one battery. Get the features you need but understand how each one impacts the power drainage of the hearing aids.

2. The Hearing Aids Need to be Stored Properly

To prevent drainage of power you will usually have to open the battery door at night. Also, you will want to:

Store your batteries in a cool, dry place. Humidity and high temperatures will affect battery cells. Room temperature is fine just keep them out of the sun and away from heat sources include light bulbs.

Also, a dehumidifier is a smart idea. It’s one of the smartest ways to protect both the hearing aids and their batteries. Humidity in the air is hard on their delicate components.

3. Be Careful When You Change The Batteries

Be certain your hands are dry and clean. Moisture, dirt, and grease all affect battery life. Until you are ready to use the batteries, be sure to leave the plastic tabs on. In order to power on, current hearing aid batteries mix zinc with air. But you want to be ready before that happens.

It is worth letting them sit out for five minutes after you remove the tab but before you install them. The battery could be extended by days if you do this.

4. Play Around With Different Batteries and Battery Sources

High quality batteries have a longer life than bargain ones, obviously. Don’t just think about the brand, though, but what types of hearing aid batteries you’re using and where you purchase them, too. Big box stores commonly sell good batteries for less per unit if you buy in bulk.

Be careful if you shop online, particularly from an auction site such as eBay. Batteries have an expiration date that they need to be sold by. You shouldn’t use them after they expire.

The best way to find batteries at an affordable cost is to ask your hearing care specialist.

5. Be Ready For The Inevitable

The batteries are going to die eventually. If you don’t want to end up in a difficult situation, it’s helpful to get an idea when this will occur. Make a schedule of when you change the batteries and when they fizzle. You’ll get an idea of when you need to replace them over time.

So you can figure out what features have the biggest effect on the battery and which brand batteries are appropriate for your device, keep a diary.

6. What Are the Alternatives to Batteries

One of the greatest things about modern hearing aids is that some are rechargeable. You could pay slightly more for those units, but it will be worth it if you can save money on batteries. Rechargeable batteries are probably the best option if you need a lot of features such as Bluetooth or wireless.

The batteries that make hearing aids run can be as significant an investment as the hearing aids are. Lengthening the life of your batteries and saving money begins with some due diligence. Contact a hearing aid retailer for some information on what option is best for you.