How to Choose Hearing Aid Batteries

by

A comprehensive guide to selecting the right hearing aid batteries is essential for anyone relying on these vital devices for their daily lives. The seemingly small choice of a battery profoundly impacts the performance, longevity, and overall user experience of your hearing aids. This guide will delve deep into the intricacies of hearing aid battery selection, providing actionable insights to empower you to make informed decisions that optimize your hearing health.

Understanding the Heart of Your Hearing Aid: Battery Fundamentals

Hearing aids, in their quest to amplify sound and enhance auditory perception, rely heavily on a consistent and reliable power source. This power comes from specialized batteries, primarily designed for sustained, low-drain use. Unlike standard household batteries, hearing aid batteries are crafted with specific chemistries and sizes to meet the unique demands of these delicate instruments.

The Dominant Player: Zinc-Air Batteries

The vast majority of disposable hearing aid batteries on the market today are zinc-air batteries. These batteries derive their power from a chemical reaction between zinc and oxygen in the air. This unique mechanism is why they come with a protective tab: until this tab is removed, oxygen cannot enter, and the battery remains inactive, preserving its charge. Once the tab is peeled off, the battery is “activated” and begins to discharge.

Key Characteristics of Zinc-Air Batteries:

  • Activation by Air: This is their defining feature. Removing the tab exposes tiny holes, allowing air to enter and initiate the chemical reaction. It’s crucial to wait a minute or two after removing the tab before inserting the battery into your hearing aid to allow full activation and optimal performance.

  • High Energy Density: Zinc-air batteries pack a significant amount of energy into a small size, making them ideal for compact hearing aids.

  • Flat Discharge Curve: They maintain a relatively stable voltage throughout most of their life, ensuring consistent sound quality until they are nearly depleted. This is a significant advantage, as it avoids a gradual degradation of sound performance.

  • Shelf Life: Unopened and with their tabs intact, zinc-air batteries can have a shelf life of up to three to four years. However, once the tab is removed, their active life begins, regardless of whether they are in a hearing aid or not.

The Rise of Rechargeable Options

In recent years, rechargeable hearing aids have gained considerable traction, offering an alternative to the continuous cycle of disposable batteries. These hearing aids feature built-in rechargeable batteries, typically lithium-ion or nickel-metal hydride (NiMH), that can be replenished through a charging dock.

Key Characteristics of Rechargeable Batteries:

  • Lithium-Ion (Li-ion): These are the most common type of rechargeable battery in modern hearing aids. They offer high energy density, a long cycle life (meaning they can be recharged many times), and a relatively fast charging time. Many models provide a full day’s power on a single overnight charge.

  • Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH): While less common in newer models, some older rechargeable hearing aids may still use NiMH batteries. They are generally more robust and tolerate a wider range of temperatures but may have a lower energy density and shorter charge retention compared to Li-ion.

  • Convenience: The primary appeal of rechargeable hearing aids is the convenience of not having to constantly purchase and change small disposable batteries. Users simply place their hearing aids in a charging unit overnight.

  • Environmental Impact: Rechargeable batteries significantly reduce waste compared to disposable options, making them a more eco-friendly choice.

  • Upfront Cost: Rechargeable hearing aids often have a higher initial purchase price than those that use disposable batteries.

  • Battery Degradation: Like all rechargeable batteries, they will gradually lose their capacity over time and eventually need replacement (typically every few years), though this replacement is often performed by the audiologist.

Decoding Battery Sizes: A Color-Coded System

To simplify the selection process, hearing aid batteries are universally color-coded and assigned specific numbers. This system ensures that you can easily identify the correct size for your device.

  • Size 10 (Yellow): These are the smallest hearing aid batteries.
    • Dimensions: Approximately 5.8 mm diameter x 3.6 mm height.

    • Common Use: Primarily found in the smallest, most discreet hearing aid styles, such as Completely-in-Canal (CIC) and some In-the-Canal (ITC) models. Due to their tiny size, they have the shortest lifespan.

    • Typical Lifespan: 3-7 days, depending on usage and hearing aid features.

    • Example: If you have a custom-molded CIC hearing aid that sits deep within your ear canal, it’s highly likely it uses size 10 batteries. You’ll recognize them by their tiny yellow tab.

  • Size 312 (Brown): Slightly larger than size 10, these are a very common battery size.

    • Dimensions: Approximately 7.9 mm diameter x 3.6 mm height.

    • Common Use: Popular in many ITC, In-the-Ear (ITE), and some smaller Behind-the-Ear (BTE) hearing aids, especially those designed for a balance of discretion and features.

    • Typical Lifespan: 4-8 days, offering a bit more power than size 10.

    • Example: Many modern mini-BTE hearing aids or half-shell ITE devices will utilize size 312 batteries. Their brown tab makes them easy to spot.

  • Size 13 (Orange): A larger, more powerful battery size.

    • Dimensions: Approximately 7.9 mm diameter x 5.4 mm height.

    • Common Use: Frequently used in standard BTE and larger ITE hearing aids. These hearing aids often accommodate more features and require more power.

    • Typical Lifespan: 10-14 days, providing a good balance of size and longevity.

    • Example: If your hearing aid wraps around the back of your ear and has a visible tube leading into your ear canal, it’s likely a standard BTE model using size 13 batteries. The orange tab is your indicator.

  • Size 675 (Blue): The largest and most powerful hearing aid battery size.

    • Dimensions: Approximately 11.6 mm diameter x 5.4 mm height.

    • Common Use: Primarily found in powerful BTE hearing aids, especially those designed for severe to profound hearing loss, and some cochlear implant processors. These devices demand significant power for amplification and advanced features.

    • Typical Lifespan: 14-20 days or longer, offering the longest active life.

    • Example: For individuals with significant hearing loss requiring maximum amplification, larger power BTE hearing aids are common, and these almost exclusively use size 675 batteries, identified by their blue tab. Cochlear implant users will also often find they require specialized 675P batteries for enhanced power delivery.

Actionable Tip: Always check your hearing aid’s user manual or consult your audiologist to confirm the correct battery size for your specific device. The color coding is a helpful visual cue, but cross-referencing with the model number ensures accuracy.

Factors That Influence Hearing Aid Battery Life

The advertised “typical lifespan” of a hearing aid battery is an estimate. In reality, several factors can significantly impact how long your batteries truly last. Understanding these influences empowers you to maximize battery life and avoid unexpected power outages.

1. Hearing Aid Type and Features

Modern hearing aids are technological marvels, packed with features designed to enhance your listening experience. However, these advanced functionalities come at an energetic cost.

  • Advanced Digital Processing: Features like noise reduction, directional microphones, and automatic environment adaptation require constant processing, drawing more power.
    • Concrete Example: A hearing aid with an advanced noise reduction algorithm constantly analyzes incoming sound to distinguish speech from background noise. This continuous analysis requires more battery power than a basic amplification hearing aid.
  • Wireless Connectivity (Bluetooth): Streaming audio directly from your smartphone, tablet, or television via Bluetooth is incredibly convenient but is one of the biggest power drains.
    • Concrete Example: If you stream music or phone calls through your hearing aids for several hours a day, your battery life could be cut in half compared to someone who only uses their hearing aids for basic amplification.
  • Tinnitus Masking/Sound Generators: If your hearing aid includes a feature to generate soothing sounds for tinnitus relief, this continuous sound production consumes additional power.

  • Power Level/Amplification: The degree of hearing loss you have directly correlates with the power output required from your hearing aid. Higher amplification means greater power consumption.

    • Concrete Example: A person with a severe hearing loss requiring significant amplification (e.g., set to a higher volume level or with a powerful receiver) will drain batteries faster than someone with a mild hearing loss using less amplification.

2. Daily Usage Patterns

The simple act of using your hearing aids, and for how long, is a primary determinant of battery life.

  • Hours of Use Per Day: The more hours your hearing aids are active, the quicker the batteries will deplete.
    • Concrete Example: Someone who wears their hearing aids for 16 hours a day from waking up to bedtime will naturally go through batteries faster than someone who only wears them for 8 hours a day during work.
  • Turning Off When Not in Use: A simple yet effective habit. Opening the battery door or switching off your hearing aids when you’re not wearing them, especially overnight, significantly conserves power.
    • Concrete Example: If you take your hearing aids out to shower, swim, or sleep, make it a habit to open the battery door. This effectively disconnects the battery, preventing passive drainage.

3. Environmental Conditions

Hearing aid batteries, particularly zinc-air types, are sensitive to environmental factors.

  • Temperature:
    • Cold Temperatures: Low temperatures slow down the chemical reactions within the battery, reducing its efficiency and potentially shortening its life.
      • Concrete Example: If you live in a cold climate and spend significant time outdoors in winter, you might notice your batteries depleting faster. Carrying spare batteries warmed by your body heat can be helpful.
    • High Temperatures: Excessive heat can also negatively impact battery performance and shelf life, causing them to discharge more quickly.
      • Concrete Example: Leaving your hearing aids or spare batteries in a hot car on a sunny day can drastically reduce their lifespan and even cause leakage.
  • Humidity:
    • Low Humidity (Dry Air): Can cause the battery’s electrolyte to dry out, reducing its capacity.

    • High Humidity: Can lead to moisture accumulation on the battery contacts or inside the hearing aid, causing corrosion and poor performance.

      • Concrete Example: In very humid climates, or if you sweat profusely, using a hearing aid dehumidifier or drying kit overnight is crucial to protect both your hearing aids and their batteries from moisture damage.

4. Altitude

While less commonly discussed, altitude can subtly affect zinc-air battery performance. Higher altitudes mean lower oxygen levels in the air, which can slightly reduce the efficiency of the zinc-air chemical reaction.

  • Concrete Example: If you frequently travel to or reside in high-altitude areas, you might experience a marginal decrease in battery life compared to sea level.

5. Battery Quality and Brand

Not all batteries are created equal. Reputable brands invest heavily in research and development to produce consistent, high-performing batteries.

  • Manufacturing Quality: A well-manufactured battery will deliver more consistent power and a longer life.

  • Freshness: Always check the expiration date on the battery packaging. Older batteries, even unopened, may have degraded in performance.

    • Concrete Example: Purchasing a generic brand of batteries from an unknown source might save you a few cents initially, but could result in significantly shorter battery life and inconsistent performance, costing you more in the long run due to frequent replacements. Sticking to well-known brands recommended by your audiologist often proves more economical and reliable.

Disposable vs. Rechargeable: Making the Right Choice for Your Lifestyle

The decision between disposable and rechargeable hearing aid batteries is a significant one, impacting daily routines, long-term costs, and environmental footprint.

Disposable Batteries: Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Universal Compatibility: Disposable zinc-air batteries are compatible with a wider range of hearing aid models, especially older ones.

  • Lower Upfront Cost: Hearing aids designed for disposable batteries typically have a lower initial purchase price.

  • No Charging Required: Simply replace a dead battery with a fresh one – no need for charging docks or waiting. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who travel frequently to areas without consistent access to power or for those who might forget to charge.

  • Readily Available: Disposable batteries are widely available at pharmacies, supermarkets, and audiology clinics.

Cons:

  • Ongoing Expense: The cost of continually purchasing replacement batteries adds up over time, potentially becoming a significant recurring expense.

  • Environmental Impact: Disposing of hundreds of small batteries annually contributes to landfill waste. While some recycling programs exist, battery recycling is not universally available or utilized.

  • Dexterity Challenges: For individuals with limited dexterity or visual impairment, handling and replacing tiny disposable batteries can be a frustrating and challenging task.

  • Unexpected Outages: Batteries can die unexpectedly, requiring immediate replacement, which can be inconvenient if spares aren’t readily available.

    • Concrete Example: Imagine being in the middle of an important meeting or conversation when your hearing aid suddenly goes silent because the battery died. With disposables, you’d need to pause and change it.

Rechargeable Batteries: Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Convenience: Simply place your hearing aids in their charging case overnight, and they’re ready for a full day of use. No more fumbling with tiny batteries.
    • Concrete Example: An individual with arthritis who struggles with fine motor skills will find the “drop and charge” simplicity of rechargeable hearing aids far more manageable than trying to replace a size 10 disposable battery.
  • Environmental Friendliness: Significantly reduces battery waste, making them a more sustainable choice.

  • Long-Term Cost Savings: While the upfront cost is higher, you eliminate the recurring expense of disposable batteries, leading to substantial savings over the lifespan of the hearing aids.

  • Reliable Power: Most rechargeable hearing aids are designed to provide a full day of power (typically 20-30+ hours) on a single charge, offering consistent performance.

  • Sealed Units: Rechargeable hearing aids often feature sealed battery compartments, offering better protection against moisture and dust, which can extend the overall lifespan of the device.

Cons:

  • Higher Upfront Cost: The initial investment for rechargeable hearing aids is typically higher.

  • Charging Dependency: Requires regular charging, and if you forget to charge them, you’re without your hearing aids until they’re powered up.

  • Limited Lifespan of Rechargeable Cell: The built-in rechargeable battery has a finite number of charge cycles and will eventually degrade, requiring replacement (often by the manufacturer or audiologist) after several years.

  • Less Flexible for Extended Outings: If you’re on a multi-day camping trip without access to electricity, rechargeable hearing aids might pose a challenge unless you have a portable power bank specifically designed for them.

  • Technology Limitations: Not all hearing aid styles are available with rechargeable options, particularly the smallest, most discreet models.

Actionable Tip: Consider your lifestyle. Are you constantly on the go, or do you have a consistent nightly routine? Do you value environmental impact over immediate cost? Do you struggle with fine motor skills? These questions will help guide your decision. Many modern audiologists will advocate for rechargeable options due to their convenience and environmental benefits.

Sourcing and Storing Your Hearing Aid Batteries

Once you’ve determined the correct battery type and size, proper sourcing and storage are critical to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Where to Buy Hearing Aid Batteries

  • Audiology Clinics: Your audiologist’s office is often the most reliable source for fresh, high-quality batteries specifically recommended for your hearing aid model. They may also offer bulk discounts or loyalty programs.

  • Pharmacies and Supermarkets: Major chain pharmacies and supermarkets typically stock the most common hearing aid battery sizes (10, 312, 13, 675). Check expiration dates carefully.

  • Online Retailers: Many reputable online retailers specialize in hearing aid batteries, often offering competitive prices and bulk purchase options. Ensure you’re buying from a trusted source to avoid counterfeit or expired products.

  • Hearing Aid Manufacturers: Some hearing aid manufacturers also sell their branded batteries, which are often zinc-air batteries produced by leading battery companies under their label.

Actionable Tip: When purchasing, always check the expiration date printed on the packaging. Batteries typically have a “best by” date. Opt for batteries with the furthest expiration date to ensure maximum freshness and shelf life.

The Art of Proper Battery Storage

Incorrect storage can significantly diminish a battery’s performance and lifespan, even before it’s used.

  • Keep Them Sealed: Zinc-air batteries should remain in their original, unopened packaging with the protective tab firmly in place until you are ready to use them. Removing the tab, even if the battery isn’t inserted into a hearing aid, exposes it to air and begins the activation process, shortening its life.
    • Concrete Example: Avoid tearing open an entire multi-pack of batteries just to get one. Peel off individual batteries as needed.
  • Cool, Dry Place: Store batteries at room temperature in a cool, dry environment.
    • Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Do not store batteries in the refrigerator or freezer. While an older myth suggested this prolonged life, it’s detrimental to modern zinc-air batteries. Extreme cold can increase moisture content, leading to corrosion, while extreme heat can cause rapid discharge and even leakage.
      • Concrete Example: Never leave spare batteries in direct sunlight, on a hot windowsill, near a heat vent, or in your car’s glove compartment, especially during summer. Similarly, avoid storing them in a damp bathroom.
  • Away from Metal Objects: Keep loose batteries away from coins, keys, or other metal objects. Contact with metal can create a short circuit, causing the battery to discharge rapidly and potentially become hot or leak.
    • Concrete Example: Do not carry loose batteries in your pocket or purse. Use a small, dedicated plastic container or the original blister pack for transport.
  • Out of Reach of Children and Pets: Hearing aid batteries, especially button cells, pose a serious choking hazard and can cause severe internal burns if swallowed. Many manufacturers now use child-resistant packaging.
    • Concrete Example: Store all spare batteries in a high, locked cabinet or a container that young children or pets cannot access. If you suspect a battery has been swallowed, seek immediate medical attention.

Troubleshooting Common Battery Issues

Even with the right batteries and proper care, you might occasionally encounter issues. Knowing how to troubleshoot can save you a trip to the audiologist.

  • No Sound or Weak Sound:
    • Check the Battery: Is the protective tab fully removed? Is the battery inserted correctly (positive (+) side up, aligning with the indicator in the battery compartment)? Is the battery door fully closed?
      • Action: Remove the battery, re-peel the tab (if applicable), wait 60 seconds for air activation, and reinsert, ensuring it clicks into place. Try a fresh battery.
    • Dirty Contacts: Over time, dirt or moisture can build up on the battery contacts inside your hearing aid.
      • Action: Use a soft, dry cloth or a cotton swab to gently clean the battery contacts.
    • Clogged Microphone/Speaker: Earwax or debris can block the sound pathway.
      • Action: Use the cleaning tools provided by your audiologist (brush, wax pick) to carefully clear any blockages.
    • Volume Setting: Is the volume turned down too low?
      • Action: Adjust the volume control on your hearing aid or remote.
    • Program Setting: Is the hearing aid on an incorrect program (e.g., a telecoil program when not on the phone)?
      • Action: Cycle through your hearing aid’s programs to ensure you’re on the correct one.
  • Intermittent Sound or Static:
    • Loose Battery: The battery might not be making consistent contact.
      • Action: Open and close the battery door firmly.
    • Low Battery: An almost-dead battery can cause distorted or intermittent sound before completely failing.
      • Action: Replace with a fresh battery.
    • Moisture: Moisture inside the hearing aid can cause static.
      • Action: Place your hearing aid in a drying kit or dehumidifier overnight.
  • Hearing Aid Turning Off Unexpectedly:
    • Battery Depleted: The most common reason.
      • Action: Replace the battery.
    • Loose Battery Door: The battery door might be slightly open, disrupting the connection.
      • Action: Ensure the battery door is securely latched.
    • Internal Issue: If fresh batteries and secure closure don’t resolve the issue, there might be an internal fault with the hearing aid.
      • Action: Contact your audiologist for professional assessment and repair.

Actionable Tip: Keep a small battery tester on hand. These inexpensive devices can quickly tell you if a battery is dead or still has life, saving you from prematurely discarding functional batteries.

Environmental Considerations and Recycling

As users of medical devices that rely on disposable power sources, it’s important to be mindful of the environmental impact of hearing aid batteries.

  • Mercury-Free Batteries: Most modern zinc-air hearing aid batteries are now mercury-free, significantly reducing their environmental hazard compared to older formulations. This is a positive step forward.

  • Recycling Programs: While small, hearing aid batteries still contain metals and chemicals that are best kept out of landfills. Many communities and retailers offer battery recycling programs.

    • Action: Collect your used hearing aid batteries in a designated container and take them to a local battery recycling drop-off point. These can often be found at electronics stores, municipal waste facilities, or specific battery collection centers. Check with your local waste management services or audiology clinic for options in your area.
  • Rechargeable as an Eco-Friendly Alternative: As discussed, opting for rechargeable hearing aids drastically reduces the number of batteries needing disposal over time, making them the most environmentally conscious choice.

The Long-Term Perspective: Health and Hearing Aid Performance

Choosing the right hearing aid batteries isn’t just about immediate power; it’s about safeguarding your hearing health and ensuring the longevity of your valuable hearing aids.

  • Consistent Power, Consistent Performance: Using high-quality, fresh batteries ensures that your hearing aids operate at their peak performance, delivering clear, consistent sound. Poor quality or dying batteries can lead to distorted sound, intermittent function, and a frustrating listening experience. This directly impacts your ability to communicate effectively and enjoy sounds around you.

  • Protecting Your Hearing Aids: Battery leakage, while rare with quality batteries, can occur, especially with extreme temperatures or faulty products. This corrosive leakage can severely damage the delicate internal components of your hearing aid, leading to costly repairs or even irreversible damage. Proper storage and prompt replacement of dead batteries minimize this risk.

  • Avoiding Interruptions: Unexpected battery failure can be more than just an inconvenience; it can be a significant disruption, especially in critical communication situations (e.g., during a medical appointment, an important conversation, or an emergency). Having a reliable battery strategy, whether it’s using long-lasting disposables with spares or a consistent charging routine for rechargeables, contributes to uninterrupted hearing.

  • Safety, Especially for Vulnerable Individuals: The small size of hearing aid batteries, particularly button cells, poses a serious ingestion hazard, especially for young children and vulnerable adults with cognitive impairments. Modern packaging often includes child-resistant features, but vigilant storage is paramount.

    • Action: If you live with children or individuals at risk, consider hearing aids with sealed, non-removable rechargeable batteries or those with secure, screw-closed battery compartments. Always store spare batteries out of reach and sight. In case of suspected ingestion, seek immediate emergency medical attention.

Final Thought

Choosing the right hearing aid batteries is an integral part of managing your hearing health. It’s not merely a transactional decision but a strategic one that influences the effectiveness of your hearing aids, your daily convenience, your budget, and even your environmental footprint. By understanding the different types, sizes, and factors affecting battery life, and by adopting smart purchasing and storage habits, you empower yourself to maintain optimal hearing performance and truly live your best life, fully connected to the world of sound.