What Causes Hearing Aids to Need Repairs

Most people don't think about the operability of their hearing aid until something starts to go wrong, maybe your hearing starts to lose its edge again or the device starts to squeal. While this could be down to a common issue like a dying battery, it might also be caused by several other factors. These include tubing damage, water damage and internal damage caused by dust. Read on for more information and advice on how to respond to hearing device issues. 

The Battery 

A hearing aid uses a button battery that gives the small electronic device excellent economy and power, but these batteries don't always last a long time and they can be damaged by rust if moisture gets in. 

One of the most common reasons hearing aids will need repairs is because of a faulty battery, either the battery life has run out or it has become rusted and due to water damage – your audiologist can repair this for you. 

The Tubing 

Most hearing aids have tubing that runs from the device situated behind the ear to the earpiece. The role of the tubing is to carry sound from the device to the inner ear, however, this tubing can become easily clogged or damaged. 

A common problem with hearing aid tubing is the buildup of wax and from the inner ear. Over time it clogs the tubs and reduces the effectiveness of the hearing aid. Tubes can also become twisted and broken.

Water Damage 

Although many hearing aids are designed to be water-resistant that doesn't mean they are waterproof, if you wear your hearing aid in the pool or a sauna moisture can get in and damage the internals of the device. 

If your hearing aid gets some water damage it can rust the battery and the circuit board. You will start to notice the hearing device working less efficiently or squealing now and then. You can't fix this yourself, take the device to your audiologist. 

Internal Damage 

Your hearing aid is a small computer, a sophisticated technology device with a circuit board, a battery, antenna and microphone. These delicate internal components can be easily damaged when dropped or exposed to moisture. 

If your hearing aid device is faulty and you can't see any reason for that in the tubing or with a basic inspection it could be an issue with the internal components – take the device to your audiologist for repairs. 

Dust Particles 

A hearing aid can also be damaged by dust particles. This is similar to water or moisture damage in a way bit with dust instead. If your device is quite old or is exposed to a dusty environment the internal components of the device could be faulty.

This is the reason the hearing aids devices come with small brushes and wipes, you need to clean your device regularly to ensure that dust doesn't get into the internal components of the device and cause damage. If it does, an audiologist can repair it for you.