Hearing aids help those who have hearing loss to once again hear noises around them. However, since hearing aids are an expensive investment, it's critical to be aware of your options in order to select the hearing aid that will work best for you. It's critical to have a general awareness of your available options, especially given how swiftly technology advances. You now have two alternatives when it comes to the power sources for hearing aids: get a hearing aid with disposable batteries or a hearing aid with rechargeable batteries. Rechargeable hearing aids are becoming considerably more prevalent, even if disposable hearing aid batteries are still the most popular option.
What is a hearing aid that is rechargeable?
Rechargeable lithium batteries are used in the rechargeable hearing aid. No longer is it necessary to purchase disposable batteries and replace them every week. Instead, recharge your electronics each night while you sleep. This process is comparable to what you do every evening to charge your smartphone.
About 15 years ago, the first hearing aids with rechargeable batteries debuted. But up until recently, a battery cycle didn't last longer than an 8-hour charge. The size of the hearing aid was also greatly expanded by the power supply. This restricted its application. Bulky accessories make wearing less comfortable and draw notice from others.
Rechargeable hearing aid batteries: Pros and Cons
Hearing aid users are aware that having a dependable source of power is one of the most crucial elements in keeping their devices functioning effectively. Since they have various advantages over conventional disposable batteries, rechargeable hearing aid batteries have grown in popularity in recent years. The advantages and disadvantages of utilising rechargeable hearing aid batteries will be covered in this blog post.
The Distinctive Features of Rechargeable and Disposable Batteries
The fact that rechargeable batteries for hearing aids can be recharged up to 500 times is the main distinction between disposable and rechargeable batteries. Typically more expensive than disposable batteries, rechargeable batteries are more cost-effective in the long run because of their extended lifespan.
However, wearers should be aware that rechargeable choices have a lower battery life per charge than disposables and may require multiple charges throughout the day.
Rechargeable hearing aid battery advantages
It's crucial to take into account all of the benefits of using rechargeable hearing aid batteries before making any judgements. They consist of:
1. Safety
Lithium-ion is a substance that is safer than other battery kinds, and it is used to make the majority of rechargeable hearing aid batteries. Because it doesn't include mercury or cadmium, lithium-ion is less likely to overheat and short circuit.
2. Cost
Rechargeable batteries can cost more up front, but over time, wearers will save money because of their longer lifespan. Those who use many sets of hearing aids or constantly need to change their batteries may find this to be extremely helpful.
3. Protection of the Environment
Hearing aid batteries that are disposable must be discarded after each use since they are difficult to break down in landfills. Additionally, they frequently include hazardous substances like mercury and cadmium. Due to their ability to be recharged and reduced frequency of landfill disposal, rechargeable hearing aid batteries are significantly more environmentally friendly.
Rechargeable batteries and zinc-air batteries both hurt the environment. Rechargeable batteries considerably reduce the amount of utilised disposable power supply. And as a result, even fewer of them are contaminating the environment!
Today, everything has changed. Hearing care professionals will select the rechargeable hearing aid style that best fits your needs and way of life. Forget the stigma associated with hearing loss and odd looks. Regardless of the battery type, a modern hearing aid is a fashionable item that highlights your uniqueness.
4. Convenient use
Rechargeable hearing aids are a fantastic option for persons with vision issues, poor fine motor skills, etc. Occasionally, these challenges make switching power supplies unfeasible.
5. Prolonged useful life
Modern lithium-ion batteries have a lifespan of roughly 5 years. The hearing aid can operate on one full battery for about 24 hours. The device manufacturer determines these numbers.You may hear clearly all day long with no trouble or pain if you charge your hearing aids every night.
6. No have to bring extra batteries
The need to constantly buy and carry spare batteries is eliminated when wearing hearing aids with rechargeable batteries. The user's primary responsibility is to remember to regularly charge their devices.
7. Simpler to manage
Rechargeable hearing aids may be advantageous for those with dexterity problems or those who don't want to worry about buying and replacing batteries all the time. This is due to the fact that disposable batteries are frequently small and their package might be challenging to open.
8. Lifespan
Rechargeable hearing aid batteries can be used up to 500 times before they need to be changed, as was previously stated. This lasts a lot longer than disposable batteries do.The wearer must ultimately determine which power source best suits their needs.
Whichever course of action you take, it's critical to remember that regular maintenance is necessary to keep hearing aids in good working order. Your overall experience with hearing aids can be made better by avoiding any issues from arising and by routinely changing the batteries and seeking advice from your audiologist.
Rechargeable hearing aid battery drawbacks
1. The absence of user control.
In many rechargeable hearing aids, the battery is encased in the instrument and the user cannot remove it themselves," the guy stated. "If the battery needs to be changed, you typically experience a period without your hearing aids. This could be annoying as even a borrowed hearing aid doesn't contain your customised settings.
2. Dependency on a power source.
The majority of hearing aid models need three hours to recharge. The battery does need to be recharged every day, according to Cross. "One of your instruments might cease working if you pause the charge cycle, assume your batteries are fully charged, and then start your day.
You must also consider what will happen if your charger is lost, breaks, or the cord degrades. Most folks don't always have a spare charger on hand.
3. Extra up-front expenses.
Rechargeable hearing aids aren't less expensive than standard ones, despite what many people think. The cost of the charging unit ($250-$300) and the cost of replacement batteries ($25-$35) are often not included in the purchase of the hearing instruments, according to Cross, even if each hearing centre establishes its own policies. However, since you won't need to purchase new batteries frequently, you may end up spending less throughout the course of your hearing aids.
4. Fewer options for hearing aid styles.
The majority of rechargeable hearing aids are worn behind the ear and are coupled with an earbud speaker. You probably won't be able to utilise rechargeable batteries if you're interested in smaller ones that totally fit within the ear.
Choosing the Correct Battery for Your Hearing Aid
Consult your audiologist first if you're thinking about converting to rechargeable hearing aid batteries. They may offer guidance on the optimal battery type for your particular device and requirements.They could also be able to assist you in locating the appropriate charger or other hearing aid accessories.
Your audiologist will also be able to provide you with advice on how to maintain your rechargeable batteries properly, including ideal storage temperatures, suggested charging times, and more. With their assistance, you can make sure that you get the most use possible out of your rechargeable hearing aid batteries and enjoy using them more generally.
It's ideal to keep yourself as educated with your hearing aids and a new breakthrough in the technology. Ask your query via Book an Appointment today. For more information visit https://hearing.careinc.ca or you can call us today at (403)605-6300