By Erin Seamer – Audiologist Hearing Help Newport
Dealing with a malfunctioning hearing aid can be frustrating, and it’s a situation many users find themselves in at some point. Like any electronic device, hearing aids may encounter issues, but armed with these practical troubleshooting tips, you’ll be better equipped to address common problems efficiently.
The first step in troubleshooting is identifying the specific problem, common hearing aid issues include:
- No sound, no power or not turning on
- Weak, static or distorted sound
- Rapid battery drain or recharge problems
- Whistling “Feedback”
- Bluetooth connectivity problems
Tips for Troubleshooting Your Hearing Aid
- Turn your hearing aid off and on again/ Change battery or recharge
- Open and close the battery door restart the device (restarting can resolve some problems).
- If restarting doesn’t work, try a new battery.
- For rechargeable hearing aids, ensure correct placement during charging (charge for several hours).
- Clean your hearing aid
- Wax and debris can block sound coming out.
- Clean your device using a brush, check the wax filter, dome and/or sound outlet.
- Check for moisture or lotions in your hearing aid
- Water can distort sound or cause complete failure.
- Remove the battery and let it air dry for 24-48 hours.
- Use hearing aid specific dry aid kit desiccant
- Check the volume and program
- Ensure your hearing aid’s volume is appropriately adjusted.
- Confirm that the volume on any associated apps is not muted or turned down (for example if the problem is hearing on the phone try turning your phone volume up).
- Excessive volume can cause whistling; if you consistently need maximum volume, consider getting your hearing checked.
- Try a Different Program – some hearing aids have multiple programs for various situations. Experiment with different programs to see if it resolves the issue.
- Make sure your hearing aid is fitted properly:
- Poorly fitted aids can affect volume and sound quality and cause feedback.
- Check the fitting in a mirror or ask a friend/family member to check how it is seated in ear
- Connectivity/Bluetooth devices problems (such as mobile phones):
- Ensure Bluetooth is on, devices are paired and within range.
- Turn your hearing aid off and on again to try re-pairing devices to phone.
- Contact us if the following applies:
- If you’ve tried the above steps and the problem persists, your hearing aid may need servicing or repair.
- Hearing aids benefit from annual reviews/adjustments, if you haven’t had a review in over a year contact us
Mastering the art of troubleshooting your hearing aid empowers you to address common issues swiftly. Don’t let hearing aid hiccups disrupt your daily life—use these tips to troubleshoot and enjoy clear, uninterrupted sound. Visit the Hearing Help clinic at Newport Marketplace Shopping Centre, call 07 3214 3641 or email hello@hearinghelpredcliffe.com.au to book an appointment.
