Summer is upon us! This makes it the perfect time to remember that hearing aids, like nearly all high-tech devices, are susceptible to excess heat and moisture. Although Starkey hearing aids are more durable than most — thanks to our proprietary Surface™ NanoShield moisture-repellent system — and if you follow the upcoming tips, it will help ensure long-lasting performance even as the thermostat climbs.
Store your hearing aids stored in a cool, dry place
Excessive heat has the ability to harm hearing aids’ circuits (the tiny computer chip that serves as the “brain” of the hearing aid). Also, too much moisture can gather on the diaphragm of the microphone and/or receiver, resulting in the perception of a “dead” hearing aid.
Use a desiccant, hearing aid dehumidifier, “dry-aid” kit for moisture
A desiccant is a moisture absorbing substance that is commonly found in dry goods such as shoes, clothes and electronics. There are inexpensive desiccant and dry-aid kits available from your hearing healthcare provider that are designed specifically for hearing instruments, including the hearing aid dehumidifier shown below.
Store the desiccant in a dry, sealed place
If the desiccant is exposed to the environment, it will pull moisture from the environment. Keeping the desiccant in a controlled environment will ensure the longest life possible of the desiccant(s).
When you can, keep hearing instruments away from heavy sweating
Excess moisture – including sweat – can damage hearing instruments. Starkey hearing aids can handle normal, moderate perspiration. However, if the hearing aids are exposed to excessive perspiration, you should act, and remove them immediately. Next open the battery doors to allow air to circulate through the hearing aids. Even better, place the hearing instruments in the desiccant kit you bought after reading the paragraphs above.
Never use any type “cleaner” on hearing instruments – not even alcohol
Liquids are simply many moisture molecules clustered together. Therefore, liquids can damage parts of the hearing aids. To clean the instruments, wipe them down with a clean, soft cloth and store them in a place that has access to air flow.
For more information on warm-weather hearing aid maintenance, talk to your hearing healthcare provider.