What to Do If Your Hearing Aids Malfunction

It’s not uncommon for hearing aids, despite their advanced technology, to encounter issues. So, if your device malfunctions, know that you’re not alone. With a little troubleshooting and some basic maintenance, you can often rectify common hearing aid problems and restore your device to full functionality. If your hearing aid has stopped working or your experience has dropped in quality, these tips can help you find the cause of the issue.

Check the Battery

If you are noticing that the sound through your hearing aid is not coming through, it keeps dropping out or has high-pitched sounds. It could be a sign that your battery is running out of power. In the first instance, if you notice any issues, it’s worth changing the battery. To do this, open the battery compartment, remove the old battery and insert a new one. If you see any damage to the battery compartment from a faulty or leaking battery, it’s best to get professional help. One of the most common hearing aid repairs is requiring a new battery, so if you feel your device is malfunctioning, check and replace the battery and see if this helps.

Inspect for Damage

A visual inspection of your hearing aids can alert you to any damage to the tubing or casing on your device. Your hearing aids are very intricate pieces of technology, and over time they can become damaged. To inspect for damage, look for signs of cracks in the tubing or the casing, parts that have become detached or any discoloration that could indicate water damage. These issues can indicate why you’re experiencing problems with your hearing aids.

Turn It off and Take It Off

To restart your hearing aids, take them off. Turn them off by pressing and holding the power button until you see the power indicator turn off. Remove the battery and then restart the process of preparing them for you to wear. Insert the battery, put the hearing aids back in and turn them on. Restarting your hearing aids can help them work through any issues and restore them back to their previous condition.

Change the Settings

If your hearing aid comes with an app that allows you to diagnose issues or change settings manually, then it can be worth using this feature if you are experiencing problems. A drop in sound quality not due to damage or earwax build-up can be checked by adjusting settings. Feedback or whistling, which is a high-pitched squeal or screech, can be due to needing a new battery, but if this isn’t the case, you might find changing frequencies helps you out. If this isn’t possible or it does not resolve the issue, talk to your audiologist.

Talk To Your Audiologist

If you’ve tried the at-home troubleshooting guides and are still experiencing issues, don’t worry. This is where your audiologist comes in. They are there to provide professional help and guidance and ensure that your device is checked and repaired by a qualified technician if needed. If you want to learn more about your hearing aids, schedule an appointment with your audiologist.