HAVE A PROBLEM? SOME HEARING AID TROUBLESHOOTING TIPS

October 3, 2019

Hearing aids are great to help us navigate the world independently–they can make a big difference in the life of a hearing loss sufferer.  

If you have hearing aids you have probably become reliant on them. If they suddenly malfunction, you may have no idea what to do.

Fortunately, there are some easy fixes to the most common problems that happen with hearing aids. When you know how to quickly repair your hearing aids, you don’t have to worry that something will happen—you will have them fixed in no time!

Simple solutions to common hearing aid problems:

1.    The sound is low or distorted.

If your hearing aid is suddenly not loud enough regardless of the volume level, check:

The Battery Batteries that are damaged or corroded ultimately result in decreased sound output. Replace corroded batteries immediately. It’s also possible that the battery is just old and needs to be replaced.

Is it Clean? Lint and dust may block sound. Clean your hearing aids regularly to clear build-up and debris that accumulates in the controls, affecting the output.

The Moisture Level can also affect how sound is processed. Using a dehumidifier at night can extend the life of your hearing aids. You can even buy a humidifier box specifically for hearing aid storage when they are not in use.

The Program or volume may have been inadvertently changed. Check the settings to ensure everything is according to your specifications.

If these things don’t work you can schedule another hearing test to ensure your hearing has not declined, and have the audiologist take a look at your hearing aids while you are there.

What if you hear no sound at all?

If you hear nothing from your hearing aids, try these steps:

Check the power. Usually the solution is the simplest one. Check to ensure the power is still on—sometimes it can be accidentally pushed when the hearing aids are not inserted or as they are being inserted.

Also check the volume. The same thing can happen with the volume, so adjust that accordingly.

Check the battery. If the battery is dead it won’t work, so try replacing it.

Check the receiver tube. If you are sure the battery is not the issue, the tube could be blocked and may need cleaning.

Check the microphone. Earwax or dirt can plug the microphone, so try cleaning that too.

You hear a whistling sound. If you hear feedback, try these troubleshooting tips:

Remove and reinsert the hearing aid. Sometimes it is not correctly aligned with your ear canal and starting over can remedy the issue.

Perhaps your earpiece doesn’t fit properly. We all have bodies that are shaped differently, so replacing the earpiece with one of a different size or shape (or even getting a custom-fit piece) could help.

If the volume is too high it can cause feedback. Try adjusting the volume.

After a while, the tubing inside of the device may crack, so replacing it could help.  

Have an evaluation. If earwax is blocking your ear canal you may experience feedback.

If the sound cuts in and out or is inconsistent…

If the volume fluctuates or the sound seems to cut in and out, try these steps to fix it:

  • Adjust the preferences or controls. Resetting your preferences could fix the problem, because dust or lint can sometimes settle in the controls.
  • This issue can happen when the battery is low, so try replacing it.
  • Look at the tube, earpiece and microphone. Wax, dust or dirt sometimes builds up in these pieces–cleaning them out could fix the problem.

If you are still can’t figure out the issue, take your hearing devices into your hearing aid provider or audiologist. Your hearing aid probably has a warranty that you may be able to use. If they are old, your hearing aids may need to be replaced. You can also get a hearing screening to ensure your hearing has not changed since your last one.

The first step to halting hearing loss and preventing further damage is to recognize your situation. Come in today for a hearing screening and formulate a strategy to train your brain to listen actively and effectively.

Diablo Hearing Services   2301 Camino Ramon, STE 106   San Ramon (925) 394-4646

read more

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *