Hearing Aid Batteries

Hearing aid batteries come in various types, each designed to cater to different hearing aid models and hearing aid user needs. Here’s a breakdown of the main types:

Zinc-Air Batteries

Zinc-air batteries are the most common type used in hearing aids due to their high energy density and relatively stable output voltage. They are air-activated and come sealed with a tab to prevent activation until ready for use.

Once the tab is removed, oxygen enters and activates the battery. This process can take some time for the oxygen to permeate the battery and fully activate the zinc. Due to this principle, waiting a few minutes after removing the tab can increase the battery's lifespan. Also, allowing the battery to sit for a minute or two after removing the tab ensures the Zinc and Oxygen chemical reaction stabilises, which leads to a more stable initial voltage from the battery.

So, how long do we wait?

We generally recommend waiting about 1 to 5 minutes after removing the tab before inserting the battery into the hearing aids. As discussed, this will allow the battery to take in enough oxygen for full activation, longer battery life, and more stable voltage for the stable function of the hearing aids.

Additional Tips for Extending Battery Life

• Storage - Keeping unused batteries in a cool, dry place can keep the battery in a better state

• Handling - Touching the battery’s flat side with oily and dirt from the fingers can interfere with the battery’s performance

• Turn off hearing aids when not in use - When not in use, turn off your hearing aids or open the battery door to prevent unnecessary usage.

Advantages of Zinc-Air Batteries

• Long Shelf life

• There is no need to take a charger when travelling

Sizes

Zinc Air batteries come in four standard sizes, and they are colour-coded for easy identification.

Size 10 (Yellow)

Smallest hearing aid batteries

Usage time - mostly 5-7 days

Compatible hearing aid style -

• mini Receiver in the Ear/Canal (mini RITE/RIC)

• Completely in the Canal (CIC)

• Invisible in the Canal (IIC)

Size 13

Smallest hearing aid batteries

Usage time - mostly 10-14 days

Compatible hearing aid style -

• Receiver in the Ear (RITE)

• mini Receiver in the Canal (mini RIC)

• Completely in the Canal (CIC)

• Invisible in the Canal (IIC)

• Bone Anchored Hearing Aid (BAHA)

At Natural Hearing, we supply quality hearing aids battery that has fresh expiry date.

To purchase quality hearing aid batteries please visit our shop or click HERE.

Rechargeable Batteries

Rechargeable batteries have become increasingly popular due to their convenience and environmental benefits. The rechargeable hearing aid battery eliminates the need for frequent battery replacement. The Charging process is quite simple, and there are two types of charging: induction and galvanic. Rechargeable batteries do not need to be removed from the hearing aid and just has to be placed on the charging station.

Types of Rechargeable batteries

There are two types of rechargeable batteries - Lithium-ion and Silver Zinc.

Prior to the availability of lithium-ion batteries, Silver zinc batteries were used as the rechargeable option. However, they are being phased out as they require replacement once a year to sometimes every six months. This creates inconvenience and increases the cost of maintenance. They also take a long time to fully charge, and their usage hours are much shorter than those of lithium-ion batteries.

Lithium-ion batteries are much more stable than Silver Zinc technology, but they still need to be maintained.

How to maximise the rechargeable hearing aid batteries’ lifespan

There are a few ways to maximise the lifespan of rechargeable hearing aid batteries.

• Avoid Extreme Temperature

  • Avoid leaving them in hot places (eg direct sunlight or a hot car) or cold environments for extended periods can degrade battery life

• Regular Charing

  • Consistent charging - Try to charge your hearing aids regularly rather than fully discharging it. Lithium-ion batteries perform best when kept at a charge between 20% and 80%.

  • Avoid Overcharging - Modern hearing aids have built in protection against overcharing, but its still a good practice to avoid leaving them on the charger for more than necessary once fully charged.

  • Partial Discharging - Regularly letting the battery drop to very low levels can shorten batteries lifespan. Its better to char the battery more frequently.

• Proper Storage

  • If the hearing aids are not going to be used for an extended period, they are best stored in a cool, dry place, with the aim of keeping the battery at around 50% charge. Storing them at full charge of completely discharged can shorten the battery life over time.

• Keep it Dry

  • Moisture can damage lithium-ion batteries. Using a dehumidifier and drying kit designed for hearing aids can keep them dry for longevity.

• Using the correct Adaptor and Cable

  • Always use the charger and USB adaptor provided by the manufacturer. Using incompatible models can damage the battery or reduce its lifespan.

• Regular Maintenace

  • Regularly have your hearing aids serviced by a professional to ensure they are in good working condition. Proper maintenance can help prevent battery drain caused by faults and moisture and debris build up.

When batteries need to be conserved, and there is no way to charge the hearing aids for any reason, limiting the wireless streaming can also conserve the hearing aid batteries.