Keeping your hearing aid in good working condition allows you to get the most out of it and keep it working longer. Here are some guidelines to help you use your hearing aids effectively.
Be aware of which is which
Look for the red (right) and blue (left) markers that indicate which ear the device is designed for. This seems simple and unimportant but putting an aid in the wrong ear can result in discomfort and poor sound quality. If you wear two hearing aids, they’ve been tailored for the specific hearing levels in each ear.
Cleaning and maintaining your device
- Clean your hearing aid daily with a cleaning cloth. Never use running water or immerse the hearing aid in water. Do not apply pressure when wiping the hearing aid.
- Use a wax brush to gently brush wax or debris away from the hole where the sound comes out. Use the metal hook to pick any wax out of the holes.
- Some devices may have exchangeable wax filters. These can be replaced using the tool supplied.
- If your device has a tube or wire, check the tube/wire isn’t squashed, twisted or split.
General tips
- Clean your hearing device regularly.
- Avoid getting your hearing aid wet - don’t wear it in the shower or in the rain. Remove any moisture with a tissue or dry cloth.
- Remove hearing aids before using aftershave, hairspray, perfume, sunscreen, insect repellent and so on, as they may contain chemicals that could damage it.
- Don’t expose your hearing aid to extreme heat.
- Put your hearing aids in its case when you’re not wearing them.
Troubleshooting Guide
Whistling sound
Hearing aids often whistle or screech when you are putting them in or taking them out. This is normal. But they shouldn’t whistle once they’re in. If they do:
- Make sure the earmould/earpiece is sitting in the right place.
- Sometimes whistling is caused by ear wax. Use wax drops or see your GP.
- Check the tubing isn’t cracked or torn - we can replace it for you if it is.
- Check the earmould - if it’s discoloured and/or hardened you’ll need a new one. Contact us to make an appointment.
No sound/sound is weak
If your hearing aid isn’t working:
- Check if the device needs recharging or a new battery.
- Ensure the sound outlet at the end of the earmould is free of wax.
- If you have a volume control, check it hasn’t been turned down.
- If you have a program button, check it hasn’t accidentally been changed to the telecoil program.
