Hearing aids are comprised of incredibly intricate and advanced technology. Like any other form of technology, a degree of wear and tear can occur over time. At Bluegrass Hearing Clinic, we provide some of the most durable devices on the market, and with regular maintenance and care, your device should last for many years. However, in the event of wear and tear from aging or damage from an accident, we are also able to provide the repairs you need to restore functionality.
Cleaning
As you wear a hearing aid, it will slowly build up dirt and wax from natural sources. If you don’t regularly clean your devices off, this buildup could impede important functions. Device degradation will be noticeable since the audio will be muffled to the point of being too quiet. Some wearers mistake this for the batteries needing to be changed, and are shocked when a lack of power isn’t the culprit.
Don’t use chemicals or alcohol wipes to clean a hearing device. Instead, use a soft brush and a dry cloth after wearing your devices to gently remove regular buildup. Following this simple routine can help preserve the effectiveness of your devices. If you have a stubborn amount of wax, then consider purchasing a wax pick and brush made specifically for hearing aids.
Repair
When repairs are beyond cleaning, they should be examined by one of our professionals. Onsite repair is a vital part of hearing aid maintenance. Never take apart a hearing device on your own in an attempt to do advanced repairs. Onsite repairs for less complicated issues require a hearing health professional that understands the technology.
In extreme circumstances, more severe damage may require more advanced repairs. This is when the manufacturer steps in to handle the repair process. We will ship your old device off for repairs from the manufacturer and keep you informed along the way.
Tips
The style of the hearing aid matters when you concentrate on cleaning techniques. Behind-the-ear (BTE) devices have an earmold that requires additional observation and maintenance. If BTE is your style, then soaking the earmolds in warm, soapy water once a week can help prevent discoloration.
Don’t use unapproved tools for cleaning hearing devices. Using a toothpick or safety pin will lead to an accidental puncture of important parts. If you are having trouble locating cleaning and maintaining your hearing aids, contact our office to help guide you through the process!