So, you have been wearing your hearing aids regularly, when you notice that you are not able to hear as well as when you first got them…. Maybe you aren’t able to hear at all. Don’t panic! Hearing aids require routine cleanings. A build-up wax or debris may prevent sound from travelling effectively from your hearing aid, but thankfully this build-up is easily corrected. If you are not able to hear from your hearing aids try these quick trouble shooting techniques to restore volume.
1. Replace your ear wax filter
Often when you aren’t able to hear the main offender is a plugged filter. These white, donut shaped filters protect the RIC hearing aid speakers and sit directly under the rubber dome (or earbud). As the filters sit directly in the ear, it is common for them to become plugged with wax over time. Filters should be replaced only as needed, this will be dependent on and individual’s ears and wax production- some individuals find they need to replace their filters every few weeks, while others may go several months. How-to videos can be found on the Gardner Audiology website using this link: https://gardneraudiology.com/category/how-to-videos/
2. Brush microphone covers
Using a clean and dry toothbrush, brush along your microphone covers which sit on the topmost part of the hearing aids. Microphone covers can become clogged with debris such as dust, dead skin, or hair product residue. Do not attempt to remove the cover, as brushing directly on the microphones may cause damage.
3. Wipe your domes
It is best to wipe the plastic ear piece or domes (rubber tips inserted in ears) in the morning before putting on your hearing aids. This allows any accumulated wax to harden overnight, making it easier to clean off. Use a slightly damp paper towel or cloth to wipe down the dome, squeezing gently to remove any wax. Domes should be wiped daily, using water only or a nonalcohol-based cleaning wipe (available for sale in office).
4. Replace batteries or place in charger
If your hearing aids are clean, replace the hearing aid battery or return to the charging case. If using batteries- be sure to remove the sticker and allow the battery to sit face-up on a flat surface for 1-2 minutes before inserting into you hearing aid to allow for proper air-activation. This will give you the best possible battery life. If using a charger- the indicator light should flash green to indicate that your hearing aids are charging. Hearing aids can take several hours to fully charge and should be charged nightly.
If the following tips have not restored your hearing aid volume, or if your charger indicator flashes red, call to schedule an appointment with an audiologist at 1-800-277-1182
