The Pros and Cons of Rechargeable Hearing Aid Batteries

Have you noticed a change to your hearing? If so, you might be experiencing hearing loss. Hearing loss is a common condition and will usually relate to age. However, there can be other causes too. The most common treatment for hearing loss is hearing aids. There are many different types of hearing aids to choose from.

This includes hearing aids that use rechargeable batteries and those where the batteries will need to be replaced. A hearing instrument specialist (HIS) will be able to help you make the right choice here. However, below, we’ll explain some of the pros and cons of rechargeable hearing aid batteries.

Longer Shelf Life

First, these batteries will last far longer in general. Overall, rechargeable batteries will hold a charge for thirty plus hours and tend to last at least five years before a replacement is required. Although, this can depend on how often you use the features that are more likely to drain the battery including wireless streaming.

In contrast, hearing aids with disposable batteries will need to be replaced every couple of weeks. Again, this does depend on the hearing aid model that you are using.

Safer for Kids

Another point to consider is that rechargeable batteries are safer for children. Disposable batteries can cause issues if swallowed for both pets and kids. Rechargeable batteries aren’t dangerous at all and are not harmful if swallowed. However, they can still pose a choking hazard dependent on the design. That’s why it’s important to ensure that you are taking care to store your batteries in a safe place if you have children or pets.

Friendly To the Environment

Rechargeable batteries can also be better for the environment. The reason for this is quite simple. Rechargeable batteries will always result in less waste. This is important, particularly when you consider that any batteries are harmful to the environment if they are not handled and disposed of the right way.

Easier to Handle

It’s also worth noting that rechargeable batteries are easier to handle. As such, they will always be useful to individuals who have issues with motor control or dexterity. People with problems like this will find that the batteries are easier to put in and place correctly. You won’t have to replace rechargeable batteries as often as disposables. This avoids issues with the hearing aids failing to operate correctly.

Low Levels of User Control

First, there’s a lack of user control when utilizing these batteries. For instance, it’s common for the battery to be encased within the device. This means that you may not be able to easily remove it yourself. Your hearing instrument specialist will show you how to remove these batteries, and if there are any issues, take them in. If the battery does need to be replaced, then you may need to wait until you can see a hearing instrument specialist. This can result in some downtime where you can’t use the hearing aids you need to ensure the best possible quality of life.

Needs Charging Unit

To use hearing aids with rechargeable batteries, you’ll need a charging unit. The issue here is that a typical hearing aid with a rechargeable battery will take at least three hours to charge. Similarly, you will likely need to charge the batteries at least one per day. If you forget to charge them through the night, this is another reason why you might be left without your hearing aids when you require them.

You will also need to wait to use the devices until they are fully charged. If you remove them before they have completed their charging cycle, then there is the risk of damaging the devices or causing them to stop working. You’ll also need to ensure that you are taking your charger with you when you are going on trips or planning vacations.

Less Hearing Aid Styles

Finally, not all hearing aids are available with rechargeable batteries. So, if you are interested in this possibility, then you will have fewer options to consider. You are also unlikely to get rechargeable hearing aids if you are looking at smaller models. Most of these devices are designed to fit behind your ear.

We hope this helps you understand some of the pros and cons of hearing aids that use rechargeable batteries. If you are interested in learning more about Sound Choice Hearing, please do not hesitate to get in touch at (505) 565-7960. In doing so, you can learn more about the different types of hearing aids and the benefits that they may provide.