Your hearing aids are essential devices that help you stay connected to the world around you. However, like any piece of technology, they require regular maintenance and care to perform at their best.
Your hearing aids are vital to your daily life, and we’re here to help you maintain them in top condition.
Here’s a guide to caring for your hearing aids, along with some troubleshooting tips and information about our repair services.
Daily Care Tips for Your Hearing Aids
1. Clean Your Hearing Aids Regularly:
Clean your hearing aids daily to prevent earwax and debris from accumulating on the devices. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down your hearing aids, focusing on the microphone ports and the ear tips. Never use water, alcohol, or cleaning solutions that are not specifically designed for hearing aids.
2. Inspect for Damage:
Regularly check your hearing aids for any visible damage. Look for cracks in the casing, loose wires, or other signs that might indicate a problem. If you notice any damage, contact us for an evaluation and potential repair.
3. Replace Wax Guards and Filters:
Hearing aids often come with wax guards or filters to protect the delicate components from earwax. Change these as recommended by your hearing care professional or the manufacturer to prevent blockages.
4. Use a Hearing Aid Dryer:
Moisture is a common cause of hearing aid malfunction. Invest in a hearing aid dryer or dehumidifier, especially if you live in a humid environment. This helps to remove moisture from your hearing aids overnight, extending their lifespan.
5. Handle With Care:
When cleaning or inserting your hearing aids, handle them over a soft surface like a towel or bed to minimize the risk of damage if they are accidentally dropped.
Troubleshooting Common Hearing Aid Issues
Even with proper care, hearing aids can sometimes malfunction. Here are a few common problems and how to troubleshoot them:
No Sound or Low Volume:
Ensure your hearing aids are turned on and fully charged. Check for any blockages, such as earwax, in the tubing or ear tip. If the issue persists, try replacing the wax guard or filter.
Whistling or Feedback:
If you hear a high-pitched whistling sound, make sure your hearing aids are properly fitted in your ears. Feedback can occur if there is an improper seal or if the volume is set too high. Adjust the volume and reposition the hearing aids to see if this resolves the issue.
Intermittent Sound:
Intermittent sound may be due to moisture or debris. Use a hearing aid dryer overnight and clean the device carefully. If the problem continues, there may be a loose wire or internal component that requires professional repair.
When to Seek Professional Hearing Aid Repair Services
If you’ve tried troubleshooting but your hearing aids are still not working correctly, it’s time to seek professional repair services. All About Hearing 4 U specializes in diagnosing and repairing hearing aids from leading manufacturers, including ReSound, Phonak, Widex, Oticon, Starkey, Signia, Beltone, and Miracle Ear.
We handle common repair needs, such as:
Built-Up Earwax:
Earwax can obstruct the microphone and receiver, causing malfunction.
Moisture Damage:
Exposure to moisture can corrode components or short-circuit the device.
Damaged Components or Loose Wires:
Physical damage or wear and tear can cause your hearing aids to malfunction.
Our Hearing Aid Maintenance and Repair Services
Our experienced team offers both in-house repairs and manufacturer repairs, depending on the extent of the damage:
In-House Repairs:
Our skilled technicians can perform many repairs in our Midland clinic. We keep a range of spare parts on hand, allowing us to fix your device quickly, often the same day. Our in-house repair services cost between $20 and $170, depending on the repair.
Manufacturer Repairs:
For more complex issues, we send your hearing aids to the manufacturer. If your device is out of warranty and less than five years old, the repair fee is $300; if it’s older than five years, the fee can be up to $500. All repairs are shipped via Federal Express or UPS for a fast turnaround.
Loaner Hearing Aids:
If your hearing aids require more extensive repairs, we offer a loaner set while your device is being serviced. These loaners might not match your exact device, but they are carefully selected to meet your needs and help keep you connected.
The Benefits of Regular Maintenance
Just like routine checkups for your car, regular hearing aid maintenance is crucial. We recommend bringing your hearing aids in for a “clean and check” every six months. During these appointments, our team will:
- Replace or clean ear tips, domes, and wax guards
- Conduct ultrasonic earmold cleaning
- Perform a tubing change for behind-the-ear devices
- Replace microphone covers
- Conduct a sound clarity check
- Visually inspect your devices for any signs of damage or repair needs
Schedule Your Hearing Aid Maintenance or Repair Today
Regular maintenance and timely repairs are key to ensuring your hearing aids perform at their best.
If you are experiencing any issues with your hearing aids or if it’s time for a checkup, contact All About Hearing 4 U in Midland, TX.
Our team is ready to help you get the most out of your hearing devices and keep you connected to the world around you.
