Can hearing aids be repaired?
There is no doubt that for those living with hearing loss, hearing aids improve their quality of life. But what happens when they stop working? A silent hearing aid is not only frustrating but also hinders everyday life.
Hearing aids are intricate devices, and like any form of technology, they are prone to wear and tear. From minor damage to more serious malfunctions, many users are often unsure whether repair is possible or even worth the cost.
In this blog, we will break down common hearing aid problems, explain what can be repaired, and help you decide whether it’s best to repair or replace your hearing aids.
Understanding hearing aid repairs
With today’s technology, hearing aids are the most compact they’ve ever been, with a range of intricate and complex design elements to give those with hearing loss the best sound experience possible.
Whilst manufacturers vary in features and devices, most consist of four main components: the microphone, amplifier, receiver and battery. The microphone captures sound, whilst the amplifier boosts that sound signal. The receiver sends the amplified sound into the ear, and the battery powers the entire device. These parts can break for several reasons, including trapped moisture, ear wax build-up and battery life. All of which can significantly impact the device’s performance.
So what can you do to prevent these issues from occurring? Regular maintenance and care are the most important steps to keeping your hearing aids performing at their best. By incorporating simple practices, such as changing wax guards, cleaning the vents and making sure to store your devices in a dry place, as well as regular check-ups with your audiologist, you can significantly reduce the need for repair.
Common hearing aid issues and repairability
Understanding which hearing aid problems can be repaired depends on the severity of the issue. Minor issues are usually repairable, while severe problems might require replacement.
Minor issues often involve blocked microphones due to an accumulation of ear wax and debris. This means you will often experience muffled sound, something which is simple to resolve through routine cleaning, using a soft bristle brush or wax pick.
Battery-related issues, such as your device not turning on or turning itself off after short periods, usually mean the battery needs replacing or the contacts need cleaning, and depending on the device, this can often be done at home.
Another common issue for users with behind-the-ear models is that the tubing can harden and crack over time; this is usually a straightforward fix for most audiologists.
Moderate issues are those that typically require professional attention, either from your audiologist or the manufacturer. Manufacturers can often repair cracked casing as a result of accidental drops, though the cost of this will vary based on the model.
Internal damage, such as a malfunctioning amplifier and microphone will require expert repair, and for hearing aid models that feature Bluetooth, connectivity issues can often be resolved with a software update or reset; however, in some cases, hardware adjustments may be necessary, taking on average three to seven days, with some clinics offering same-day services.
If your hearing aid is severely damaged, your audiologist may recommend a full replacement. Water damage, in particular, can significantly affect the internal circuits, often making replacement necessary.
Manufacturer repairs are required for significant damage or if the hearing aid is under warranty. Depending on the brand and part availability, manufacturers can perform extensive repairs, which often take one to two weeks.
Cost of hearing aid repairs
The cost of hearing aid repairs varies depending on the severity of the damage, the brand, and whether the device is under warranty. Minor repairs, such as cleaning and ear wax removal, typically cost between £20 and £100. Moderate repairs, including microphone replacement and casing repair, usually range from £150 to £300. Major repairs, such as circuit board or internal component replacement, can cost between £300 and £500.
In some cases, the cost of repairs can approach the price of a new hearing aid, particularly for older models. Most new hearing aids come with a one to three-year warranty that covers manufacturing defects and some repairs. Extended warranties can offer additional peace of mind, especially for premium devices.
While some insurance plans cover hearing aid repairs, many do not. It is advisable to check with your provider to understand your coverage and determine whether repairs will be an out-of-pocket expense.
When to repair and when to replace
Deciding whether you should repair or replace a hearing aid depends on several factors, including the age of the device, the cost of repairs compared to a new device and technological advancements.
The age of the hearing aid plays a significant role in this decision. With proper care, most hearing aids last five to seven years. If your device is older, a replacement might be more cost-effective than repeated repairs. Additionally, if the repair cost exceeds the price of a new hearing aid, upgrading is, of course, a more practical approach. Newer models often offer improved sound quality, advanced noise cancellation, Bluetooth connectivity, and rechargeable batteries.
Technological advancements can also influence the decision. If your current hearing aids lack modern features that could improve your hearing experience, it might be worth investing in an upgrade rather than repairing an outdated model.
Preventing frequent repairs
Proper care can significantly extend the lifespan of hearing aids and reduce the need for frequent repairs. Daily cleaning plays a huge part in this. Wipe hearing aids with a soft, dry cloth and clean wax guards and vents weekly. Audiologists also recommend using a hearing aid cleaning kit, which can help with deeper cleaning.
Protecting hearing aids from moisture is equally important. You should store them in a dry, cool place when not in use and consider using a dehumidifier or drying box overnight. It’s important that you avoid wearing hearing aids while in direct contact with water, such as when showering and swimming.
Battery care is another crucial aspect. Remove batteries when the hearing aids are not in use to stop corrosion, and if your hearing aids are rechargeable, they are docked for charge correctly. Regular checkups with your audiologist can also prevent major issues by catching potential problems early. Scheduling professional cleanings and checkups every six to twelve months can help maintain the devices’ performance.
For further information on our Hearing Device Repairs, please contact our team today. Or book a personal appointment with our team of hearing specialists here.