Maintenance and Accessories

At All Ears in Hearing, we have a range of products to suit all maintenance, cleaning and moisture removal needs. Please contact us for further information and a free demonstration.

Why is Maintenance Important?

Hearing aids are susceptible to breakdown as they are constantly exposed to wax and moisture. Approximately 85% of all hearing aid faults or repairs are caused by wax and moisture

Hearing aids are very small devices with even smaller components. These minuscule components are responsible for the hearing aids’ performance and without regular maintenance, the performance of the devices can be compromised. Regular cleaning and maintenance ensures your hearing device functions optimally and reliably. Correct care will also reduce repair costs and increase the life your hearing instruments.

It’s recommended to avoid getting hearing aids wet and to handle them with care on a clean, stable surface. Wipe them regularly with a dry cloth or tissue and use the supplied tools to remove wax and keep the microphones free from dust, dirt and wax.

Chemicals in cosmetics such as perfumes, hairspray and aftershave and heated hair appliances like hairdryers, can damage your hearing instruments. Remove your devices first before using such products.

Hearing aids should not be exposed to extreme heat like the car glove box.

In-the-ear hearing devices are usually fitted with wax management systems to prevent wax damage, so it’s essential that the wax management system is cleaned daily. The wax management system may also need to be changed regularly, so it’s important to have a spare supply. If you are unsure of how to clean or change your wax management system, contact All Ears in Hearing and we will be happy to show you.

For behind-the-ear devices, wax can be removed from the mould and tubing by using cleaning tools and a cleansing solution. If using a cleansing solution, remember to disconnect the hearing aid from the mould before putting it in the solution. You may want to invest in an air puffer to ensure the tubing and mould is free from moisture before re connecting the hearing aid.

Moisture

Moisture is another big problem for hearing aids as it can damage the internal, electronic components. Always remove hearing aids before having a shower, bath or a swim. Never leave them in the bathroom.

Humidity

Queensland is a very warm, humid place to live. Humidity can cause moisture to build up inside the hearing aid, tubing or both.

Perspiration

In our hot, humid environment, some of us perspire more than others. Perspiration can have harmful effects on delicate circuitry, considerably shortening the life of the devices. If you perspire a lot, regularly remove your instruments, dry them and any perspiration inside and around the ear. Accessories are available that can be used to help prevent damage caused by perspiration.

Accidental Water Damage

Sometimes, it’s easy to forget you are wearing a hearing aid. Many people have accidentally got into the shower or dove into a pool before realising they still have their hearing aids on.

Dehumidifier kits are one of the best ways to remove moisture and prevent moisture damage. They are an inexpensive investment to ensure the reliability and extended life of your hearing instrument.

Batteries

Battery life will vary with hearing instrument style, model and hours of use. Generally, the smaller the battery and the longer you wear the device, the shorter the life of the battery. To save battery life, always turn off the hearing aid when you are not wearing it and don’t remove the protective cover on the battery until you are ready to use it. It’s also a good idea to have spare batteries on hand.

The battery compartment and contacts should be regularly cleaned to keep them clear of dirt, dust and ear wax.

Accessories

When you purchase a hearing device at All Ears in Hearing, you are supplied with a complimentary basic tool kit. These tools take 5 minutes to clean the hearing device and if used regularly, help increase the life and reliability of your asset.

Basic tool kit

The essential kit in keeping your investment functioning optimally. It consists of:

a machine washable cleaning cloth – used to wipe over the device daily
cleaning brush – used to brush over the microphone and controls
cleaning pick – used to remove wax from wax management systems and ear moulds
vent tool – used to clean vents on in-the-ear instruments and ear moulds
magnet – helpful when changing batteries

Dehumidifier kit

Moisture is one of the biggest causes of hearing aid repairs. Using a dehumidifier kit each night is an inexpensive way to ensure your hearing device is free from moisture and working reliably and effectively. Minimising moisture damage also increases the life your hearing instruments, making sure you get the most out of your investment.

Battery Tester

Battery testers are a perfect way to check the power of your hearing aid batteries. They are small, lightweight and can fit on your key ring, in your pocket or handbag. Some battery testers even have a compartment for spare batteries.

Sweat Protectors

Sweat protectors are designed to protect behind-the-ear hearing aids from moisture damage. The hearing aid is placed inside the protector and is then worn behind the ear normally. Volume and program controls can still be accessed when wearing the sweat protector. A great way to avoid the inconvenience and costly repairs caused by moisture damage due to perspiration.

Air Puffer

For those who own behind-the-ear hearing aids, it’s important to keep the ear mould clean. However, if using a cleaning solution to clean the moulds, there is a risk of moisture damage if the moisture is not completely removed. Air puffers are an inexpensive way to ensure the tubing and mould is free from moisture after cleaning.