While cold air itself is not necessarily damaging to hearing aids, the moisture that occurs from snow, and temperature fluctuations that can harm hearing aid tubes and the delicate circuitry around them. When we’re bundled up outdoors in the cold air, and then go inside where temperatures are significantly warmer, the temperature change causes moisture to form. Moisture can negatively affect the microphone, receiver, and earmold tubing in a hearing aid unit, which can cause a change in sound or result in no sound at all. 

You can help prevent moisture damage to your hearing aids by following these expert tips:

1. Keep Extra Batteries On Hand

There are two types of hearing aid batteries - rechargeable lithium-ion batteries and zinc-air disposable batteries. Since batteries (especially zinc-air batteries) drain more quickly in the winter months, make sure you always carry a few extra. This will prevent you from ending up with a dead battery and no replacement when you’re out and about. 

Here is a list of some of the best hearing aid manufacturers that offer rechargeable hearing aids to their patients:

• Oticon Opn S, Ruby and Play
• Phonak Audeo Marvel, Bolero, Naida and Sky Marvel
• Starkey Livio AI
• ReSound LiNX Quattro

It’s also important to educate yourself about hearing aid batteries sizes, and their typical duration before you’ll need a replacement:

Hearing Aid Battery Type And Size Chart

Find Affordable Hearing Aids Near Brooklyn and Queens, NY

Zn Audiology believes that hearing health should be accessible to everyone, regardless of how severe their hearing loss may be. If you’re located in the Greater New York City area and have ever searched for “hearing aid batteries near me” but been overwhelmed at the prices that come up, we can help you. Our practice offers the most popular hearing aids and batteries at specially discounted prices, and we provide leasing on hearing aids for as low as $300 dollars a month. We also offer our patients a CareCredit program that allows you to make interest-free payments for 12 months. If you’d like more information about how we can help you finance a new pair of hearing aids, book an appointment with one of our audiologists online!

2. Cover Your Head And Ears With Protective Clothing

When your hearing aids are exposed to cold air, it increases the risk of condensation build-up. It’s very important to keep your head and ears warm and dry before you go outside for any length of time. Moisture-absorbing hats, earmuffs, and scarves will help protect your hearing aids from the cold, as well as the snow, sleet, and precipitation. If you wear behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids, there are hearing aid accessories that can help, such as moisture-wicking hearing aid sweatbands. 

Expert Hearing Health From NYC’s Top Audiologists  

When you invest in a new pair of hearing aids, you want to make sure they operate at an optimal performance for as long as possible. That is why our audiologists treat every patient like family, taking the time to understand their medical history, occupation, lifestyle, and unique hearing needs. If you are curious about hearing aid accessories, such as the best hearing aid dehumidifier on the market, speak to Dr. Zarina Naizam or a member of her audiological team for expert advice.

3. Store Your Hearing Aids Safely Before Playing Sports

Whether you’re an avid skier or simply stuck outside shoveling during heavy snowfall, it’s best to remove your hearing aids and keep them in a warm, dry place before you do anything physically exerting. Perspiration and precipitation can both damage hearing aids, and it is nearly impossible to avoid both of those things when you are exercising outside during the winter. Never place your hearing aids in your car or inside of your pockets, as this will not protect them from the cold temperatures. Instead, opt for a hearing aid storage case to keep them warm and dry. 

Create Custom Hearing Aids & Hearing Protection To Fit Your Needs

We understand that every patient needs a different type of hearing aid based not just on their type and degree of hearing loss, but their personal lifestyle and hobbies as well. ZN Audiology offers custom hearing aids, custom hearing protection, and assistive listening devices for those with special requirements and who are regularly exposed to high-noise environments. To make sure we select the best option for you, be sure to discuss your needs thoroughly with a licensed audiologist.

4. Don’t Forget to Air Out Your Hearing Aids  

When you come back inside after being outdoors, take a clean, soft cloth and wipe your hearing aids down until they are free of moisture. Open up the battery compartment to check for condensation, and wipe it away with a cotton swab. You can also use a hearing aid dehumidifier, an air blower, or a puffer to remove any moisture from the ear mold and/or tubing. This will help extend the life of your hearing aids, and make sure they continue to operate at an optimal level.

Get Your Hearing Checked Regularly By Audiologists Near You

It is just as important to get regular audiological evaluations as it is to properly clean and maintain your hearing aids. An audiological exam is not merely a hearing screening. It is a complete review of a patient’s case history that involves several tests that give your audiologist insight into exactly what type of hearing loss you have, and how your hearing compares to others in your age group. If you’re having any problems with your hearing, don’t delay treatment. Get an audiological evaluation as soon as possible to determine your ideal treatment plan.

ZN Audiology is an independent audiology and healthcare practice based in Brooklyn and Queens, NY that puts the focus on patients first. We provide all types of hearing aids at fair, affordable prices, and even offer customized hearing aids tailored to each patient’s individual needs and lifestyle preferences. Our dedicated audiology team is ready to assist you with all of your hearing health needs. If you would like to schedule a visit or have questions about our services, book an appointment online or call (718)-568-5227.