If your hearing aids aren’t functioning correctly, that’s something you need to address quickly.
Whether it’s a sudden loss of sound or persistent feedback, hearing aid problems can disrupt your daily life and make it challenging to communicate with those around you. Fortunately, it’s pretty straightforward to do some basic troubleshooting.
To start with, any of the three main components could be experiencing issues.
- The microphone detects sound
- The amplifier increases sound volume
- The receiver transmits sounds to your ear canal
- The battery might also be a problem
Not sure if you need help from one of our professionals? This article will give you the guidance you need to determine what you can handle independently and what requires professional attention.
Common Hearing Aid Problems, Causes, and Fixes
Although hearing aid technology has advanced, issues such as feedback, static and low battery life can still occur.
- Feedback: This is a high-pitched whistling sound that originates in the hearing aid speaker and leaks back into the microphone. This can happen when the hearing aid isn’t fitted properly in your ear canal. The volume might also be too high. Feedback can also occur when there’s an earwax blockage in your ear.
Ensure your device is fitted properly, the volume is set appropriately and that your ear canal is clear.
- Static: A crackling or popping noise which is typically caused when your hearing aid isn’t properly cleaned or maintained. Dust, oil or other materials are literally blocking the circuitry and preventing proper hearing aid function. Static can also be caused by physical damage to your hearing aid, such as a loose wire or a damaged microphone.
Have your hearing aid properly cleaned and inspected for possible damage, especially if you haven’t maintained it recently or dropped it onto a hard surface.
- Distorted or Weak Sound: If the sound isn’t right, the battery could be the wrong type or almost out of charge. Your hearing aid may also be wet or improperly cleaned. Physical damage (such as a broken or loose wire or other connection) could also be the problem.
Check the battery, clean and dry your hearing aid, and inspect it for damage.
- No Sound: If there’s no sound at all, always check that your device is turned on. Has the microphone been muted? Is there a charged battery installed?
A disconnected wire could also be the issue.
Check the power switch, volume, mute function and battery. Look for any physical damage if all of the preceding factors seem to be okay.
- Rapidly Draining Battery: Your hearing aid may be losing charge quickly due to accidentally leaving it on when not in use or using old batteries.
Even rechargeable batteries may need to be replaced after 3-4 years.
- Rapidly Draining Battery: Your hearing aid may be losing charge quickly due to accidentally leaving it on when not in use or using old batteries.
Even rechargeable batteries may need to be replaced after 3-4 years.
Be sure you’re switching off your hearing aid when you’re not using it. Especially overnight! And, be sure to check the battery is fresh and new.
- No Bluetooth Functionality: If you’re having trouble connecting your hearing aid to a Bluetooth-capable device, it may be due to disabled functionality on either device, interference from other devices or being out of range.
Are you still in range of your target device?
This one is a lot tougher to figure out, as there are so many variables in play.
Check to see that the Bluetooth function is active on your hearing and your source devices. (The source could be a TV, laptop, smartphone and so on). You might also need to experiment with the range between your hearing device and the source device. Also, troubleshoot the pairing of different devices to see if any one of them is interfering with the main device you want to connect right now.
How to Clean and Maintain Your Hearing Aids
Proper hearing aid maintenance and cleaning are essential to prevent common problems. Here are some simple tips:
- Clean your hearing aids daily with a soft, dry cloth
- Use a hearing aid cleaning kit to remove any earwax build-up
- Replace or recharge your hearing aid batteries regularly
- Store your hearing aids in a safe, dry place when not in use
- Avoid exposing your device to extreme temperatures or moisture
Hearing Aid Repairs: When to Fix It Yourself and When to See a Professional
While some hearing aid problems can be fixed at home, others require the expertise of a hearing instrument specialist. Here are some guidelines:
Do It Yourself:
- Replacing or recharging batteries
- Cleaning your hearing aid
- Inspecting for physical damage such as loose or broken wires
Professional Help:
- Reprogramming your hearing aid’s functionality
- Repairing physical damage
- Replacing parts
Prevention is key when it comes to hearing aid concerns. But if you’re experiencing persistent issues, consider visiting a hearing instrument specialist to resolve them.
Hearing Aid Repair in Missisauga
At Port Credit Audiology & Hearing Aid Clinic, we have the necessary resources and knowledge to ensure your hearing aid functions optimally. Our clinic is modern and comfortable, with all the equipment needed to troubleshoot and repair hearing aids promptly and effectively.
Our team of hearing healthcare professionals have years of experience working with various hearing aid brands and models. We understand that each patient’s hearing needs are unique, which is why we take the time to provide personalized care to each person who visits our clinic.
From routine cleanings to more complex repairs, we’re here to ensure that you can hear clearly and comfortably. You can contact us here to find out more. Or give us a call at (905) 990-3755.
Get in touch today!
