Top Signs You Need Hearing Aid Repairs

Hearing aids are an electronic device, and just like all devices, they will need repair occasionally. While you cannot keep from ever needing repairs, taking care of your device can mean less hearing aid repairs in your future. You should clean your device and allow it to air out overnight.

Even with proper care of your device, it will need repairs eventually, as is the nature of all technology. Some repairs can be done easily at home, and others will require a trip to the audiologist. Here are some of the most common signs that your hearing aid will need repairs, and if you will be able to do them at home or not.

The device stops working

It may seem like a device that has stopped working completely is the worst-case scenario, but it is not as bad as it seems. The major culprit when it comes to a device that doesn’t work at all is the battery. Replace the battery with a new one and see if that is all that is needed to fix the device.

If that does not work, you can check the tubing that runs from the receiver to the earmold. If there is a blockage due to earwax or condensation, that may be the only problem. Any blockage can keep the sound from reaching the receiver, so replacing the tubing may be all that is needed. If you have done these things and adjusted the settings, then you will need to visit your audiologist for further hearing aid repair.

Intermittent problems

You may also notice that the sound will wax and wane or discover another intermittent hearing aid problem. This can be another sign that the battery just needs to be replaced. If you do this and are still experiencing problems, then you should take it to a professional.

Whistling noises in the hearing aid

There are many reasons that you may be noticing a whistling noise emanating from your hearing aid. Incorrect positioning of the earpiece, excess earwax or a problem with the hearing aid are all causes of whistling noise. The first step is to remove the earpiece and carefully place it back in to be sure it is correctly inserted. The next step is to clean your ears to remove any earwax that may be accumulating. If neither of those things fixes the problem, then it is likely the fault of the device, and you will need to take it to an audiologist.

Unable to increase the volume enough

If your device is set to the loudest setting, but the sound is still coming through muffled or very distant, then you will want to check the tubing. A blockage of earwax or condensation in the tube can distort and muffle the sound, making it seem very quiet. It is possible to replace hearing aid tubes on your own, but your audiologist would also be happy to help if you are uncomfortable doing it.

A decrease in hearing ability

If your device has been working perfectly, but you notice a decrease in your ability to hear that cannot be categorized in the other indicators, then you will need to talk to your audiologist. If your hearing ability is decreasing, then your audiologist will be able to adjust the hearing aid to compensate.