Hearing aids rely on a small energy source to deliver clear sound. Many devices use disposable zinc-air batteries, which generate electricity using oxygen from the air. This chemical process means the battery begins to drain immediately once its protective seal is removed. Because hearing aids contain sophisticated micro-electronics, they require a constant power supply, and their lifespan varies based on several factors.
Expected Lifespan for Disposable Batteries
The primary factor determining how often you change a disposable battery is its physical size, which directly correlates to its energy capacity. Hearing aid batteries are standardized into four common sizes, each with an expected duration based on typical usage. The smallest, Size 10, typically lasts between three and seven days. Devices using the Size 312 battery operate for three to ten days.
Moving to larger sizes, the Size 13 battery provides power for six to fourteen days of use. The largest option, Size 675, is often utilized in more powerful devices and can sustain operation for nine to twenty days. These ranges represent a general guideline, assuming the device is worn for a standard number of hours daily. Smaller hearing aids, which must use smaller batteries, will always require more frequent changes.
Factors That Influence Battery Drain
The actual duration a battery lasts can be shortened by certain usage patterns and internal settings. Modern hearing aids often include wireless features, such as Bluetooth streaming, which draw considerable power. Streaming phone calls, music, or television audio for extended periods places a substantial demand on the battery. Also, if your hearing loss requires a higher level of volume or amplification, the device must work harder, resulting in faster depletion.
The number of hours the hearing aid is worn daily also impacts battery life. Environmental conditions, such as high humidity or extreme temperature fluctuations, may negatively affect the zinc-air chemical reaction. The sophistication of sound processing features, like noise reduction, also contributes to the rate of battery drain.
Best Practices for Battery Handling and Storage
Proper handling of zinc-air batteries begins the moment the protective tab is removed, which activates the battery by allowing air to enter the cell. After removing the sticker, let the battery “air up” for approximately one minute before inserting it into the hearing aid. This brief waiting period allows the zinc-air chemistry to absorb enough oxygen to reach its optimal voltage, ensuring maximum performance.
When the hearing aid is not being worn, such as overnight, opening the battery compartment door is a practical way to preserve power. This minimizes the current draw and allows any moisture that may have accumulated inside the device to evaporate. New, unused batteries should be stored in a cool, dry place with the protective tab intact. Signs that a battery is nearing the end of its life include intermittent sound, decreased sound clarity, or an audible low-battery warning tone.
Understanding Rechargeable Options
An alternative to disposable batteries is the use of rechargeable hearing aids, which streamline power management. These devices contain built-in, non-removable power cells, most commonly utilizing lithium-ion technology. This technology offers a full day of power from a single overnight charging session, eliminating the need to replace disposable batteries every few days.
Users place their hearing aids into a charging unit before bed, preparing them for up to thirty hours of use. This system provides convenience and reliability, ensuring the device is ready each morning. The long-term power cell is designed to last for several years, removing the guesswork involved in monitoring the lifespan of disposable cells.