How to handle hearing aid batteries

The lifespan of traditional hearing aid batteries depends on a few factors, including the battery size, the type of hearing aid, how often you use it, and the amount of streaming you do.

Typically, there are four sizes of hearing aid batteries:

• Size 10 (yellow)
  These are the smallest and last for about 3-7 days.
  
  
• Size 312 (brown)
  These are slightly larger and last for about 7-10 days.
  
  
• Size 13 (orange)
  These are even larger and last for about 10-14 days.
  
  
• Size 675 (blue)
  These are the largest and last for about 14-20 days.

Rechargeable batteries are also available, and they can last for a full day of use before needing to be recharged.

The lifespan of rechargeable hearing aids also varies. If properly charged overnight, they can often last a full day. However, run time depends on the hearing aid model and age, your listening environment (e.g. streaming audio can drain a battery faster), hearing aid settings, and type of battery.

What you'll need

• New hearing aid batteries (correct size and type).
  
  
• Battery removal tool (optional).

Steps to change your hearing aid batteries

1. Open the battery compartment.
   
   
2. Take out the old battery. Don't use sharp metal objects.
   
   
3. Put in the new battery with the "+" side facing up. Make sure it fits snugly.
   
   
4. Close the battery compartment securely.
   
   
5. Put on your hearing aid and test it.

• If hearing aids have removable batteries:

Pull the tab off the new battery, let it sit for approximately 5 minutes for them to fully charge (if you do not have 5 minutes, this is ok, the battery will just not last as long). When inserting the battery, the beveled edge goes into the door with the flat side up/facing you. When not wearing, open the battery door first to click for better battery life and to avoid feedback noise. Batteries will need to be changed every 5-7 days.

• If hearing aids are rechargeable:

Bottom of the hearing aid has a battery contact that connects to the contact in the charger. Once properly inserted in the charger with the charger plugged in, you should see a green flashing light on both sides. Charge every night while sleeping. You should have a solid green light once fully charged.

Sealed units

• Most rechargeable hearing aids have sealed battery compartments that are not designed to not be opened. This is often for safety and to protect against water. Do not try to open and replace the rechargeable battery on your own.

Professional replacement

• If the rechargeable battery isn't lasting very long after it's been fully charged or fails altogether, contact your hearing care professional to determine the best course of action. They may be able to send the hearing aids to the manufacturer for battery replacement or servicing.