5 Signs Your Hearing Aids Need Repairs

You depend on your hearing aids daily. These complex digital machines not only help improve your quality of life, they’re a major investment. But sometimes, even with the best of care, things can go wrong. Don’t wait to see if the problem solves itself! Take a look at these five signs your hearing aids need repairs and consider your options.

Visible damage

If your hearing aid was dropped or stepped on or there is visible damage, repairs are in order. Even a small crack or hole should be checked out. If you have a behind-the-ear hearing aid, tubing can become worn and damaged, even cracked. Sometimes earmolds look dingy and dirty and require a professional cleaning. It’s a good idea to physically inspect your hearing aids every night when you remove them. Keep in mind that severe damage cannot be repaired. If your hearing aid is in pieces or suffered substantial damage, replacement may be necessary.

It won’t turn on

If you’ve replaced the batteries, checked the contacts for corrosion, checked all the settings and made certain the on/off switch works and is in the “on” position, there probably is a bigger problem. Sometimes digital circuits become corroded, which prevents the unit from turning on.

There is no sound

Have you checked to make sure there is no wax blockage? This is the most common cause of no sound. If you’ve checked the volume controls, moved them up and down and the problem continues, the microphone or receiver may be malfunctioning.

Your hearing aids got wet

Hearing aids generally are water-resistant, but not waterproof. If you accidentally wore your hearing aids in the shower or the pool, there could be moisture damage. This also can occur if you live in a very humid area. Hearing aid dehumidifiers will reduce condensation inside the units but if the water damage is severe, professional repairs are in order.

Sounds are distorted or there is feedback

If new batteries don’t fix this problem, check your settings to make sure they are in the proper position. Also, give your hearing aids a good cleaning. If that doesn’t fix the distortion, there may be corrosion. If you hear feedback every time you insert or remove your hearing aids, there’s a good chance the fit is off and your hearing professional needs to correct it.

When it comes to hearing aid repairs, more often than not some at-home troubleshooting can fix the problem or at least pinpoint the issue. Once you notice a problem, it’s important to consult with your hearing care specialist first. They may be able to fix the problem in-office. If your hearing aids have to go back to the manufacturer and are under warranty, everything will be covered. If your warranty has ended, any replacement parts will be under a new warranty. Repairs are best done to hearing aids that are less than five years old and have had few, if any, problems in the past.