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Department of Health Sciences

Rechargeable Hearing Aids

Ditch the Disposable Batteries!

Most hearing aid manufacturers now offer rechargeable hearing aids. Lithium ion batteries are built into the hearing aid casing and does not require any maintenance. Lithium ion batteries can last upwards of 5 years and can hold a daily charge of 18-22 hours (depending on streaming use).

Perks of Rechargeable Hearing Aids

  • Set them and forget them! To begin charging the hearing aids, simply place the devices inside the charger case. The hearing aids will automatically begin to charge!
  • Great for those with reduced dexterity or touch sensitivity. Lithium ion batteries do not require any maintenance, this eliminates the need to handle small batteries every week or so.
    phonak charging case
    phonak charging case

Considerations for Rechargeable Hearing Aids

  • If you select a rechargeable hearing aid with a lithium ion unit you will not be able to intermittently switch to standard pill batteries.
  • For those who frequently travel or worry about access to outlets/electricity there are still options! Many manufacturers make travel charging units or power storage units. You can also use any USB compatible charging unit (which can be purchased at most electronic retailers or online).

 

6 tips to get the most out of your rechargeable hearing aids!

1. Wear your hearing aids during the day for at least 6 hours every day and charge them every night.

2. Don’t let your hearing aids go completely dead. A “deep discharge” of the lithium ion battery can shorten its overall lifespan.

3. The same goes for your charger. If it has an on-board battery, avoid letting it go completely dead.

4. Use the charger cable and wall plug that was originally provided by the hearing aid manufacturer. Many of these hearing aid chargers have a voltage regulator in the plug. Using a different cable or wall plug can cause problems later.

5. Plug the charger plug directly into a wall outlet, not an extension cord or a USB port.

6. Lithium ion batteries in hearing aids last about 3 years on average before needing to be replaced. If your hearing aids aren’t lasting more than 6 hours on a single charge, then call our office to schedule a troubleshooting appointment.