What to Do if Your Hearing Aids Get Wet – A Complete Guide
Discovering your hearing aids have taken an unexpected plunge can be unsettling. Water and sophisticated electronics typically don’t mix, but with today’s advanced hearing aid technology, all is not lost. If you’ve found yourself in a situation where your hearing aids have been exposed to water, there’s a step-by-step strategy to minimize damage and ensure your devices can continue to enhance your daily life.
Equip yourself with the knowledge to tackle water emergency scenarios with confidence. This guide will walk you through the immediate actions to take if your hearing aids wind up in water. Remember, a quick response to moisture exposure can make all the difference in protecting your hearing aids!
Common Ways Hearing Aids Encounter Moisture
Hearing aids might get wet in a number of everyday situations. Active individuals especially might find their devices exposed to moisture more often than they realize. Accidental splashes while swimming, forgetting to take them off before a shower, sweating during a workout, and excessive humidity in the air are all common circumstances that cause water damage to hearing aids. Temperature changes can also lead to condensation buildup inside your device. Even simple mishaps, such as dropping them in a puddle, can lead to unexpected water exposure.
Accidents are bound to happen. Keeping these common scenarios in mind will help you protect your hearing aids effectively.
What Happens to Hearing Aids When They Get Wet?
When hearing aids encounter water, their functionality can be significantly impacted due to their design. Each hearing aid houses complex parts in a compact space not entirely sealed from external elements.
Water, even in small amounts, can disrupt how these devices function. For instance, the microphone and receiver are crucial for capturing and amplifying sound but are also especially vulnerable. Moisture can cause a variety of issues, from slight to severe, affecting your ability to hear clearly and reliably. Some of the most common hearing aid problems due to water include:
- Distorted or muffled sound
- Unwanted feedback or whistling
- Volume fluctuations
- Corrosion to the battery contacts
- Inconsistent performance
- Complete device failure
Follow These Steps to Rescue Your Hearing Aids From Water
If your hearing aids get wet, acting quickly can save their functionality. First, power down the devices and remove the batteries. With the battery compartment open, shake the hearing aids gently to release any water. Then, use a soft cloth to pat them dry carefully.
Avoid heat sources like hairdryers, as these can harm the components. Instead, place the hearing aids in a dry location to air out any lingering moisture. While many have used rice to dry electronics, a hearing aid dryer is a safer bet. These dryers effectively remove moisture without causing damage and keep your hearing aids in top condition.
When to Contact a Hearing Aid Specialist
If you’ve attempted these immediate drying methods but notice your hearing aids still malfunction or exhibit unusual behavior, it’s time to consult with a professional who specializes in hearing aid care. Our hearing healthcare centers have experts ready to evaluate your hearing aids’ condition and provide insights into whether repairs or replacements are necessary.
If your hearing aids are under warranty, you might be eligible for a replacement at little to no cost. Seeking professional assistance ensures your device is handled with care and expertise and allows you to return to enjoying clear sound without delay.
Tips for Preventing Water Damage to Your Hearing Aids
Safeguarding your hearing aids against water damage plays a vital role in their longevity and effectiveness. Although it’s challenging to keep them dry at all times, adopting proactive measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of water exposure, helping to maintain their optimal performance.
- Proper Storage – Keep your hearing aids in a designated dry, airy spot when not in use. Investing in a specially made storage case can shield them from environmental humidity and dust.
- Dehumidification – Consider using a dehumidifier or drying container for your hearing aids every night, especially after they’ve been near moisture. These helpful devices prevent moisture buildup and prolong hearing aid functionality.
- Daily Cleaning – Each evening, carefully wipe your hearing aids with a clean, dry fabric to remove daily accumulations of sweat and oils, keeping them in optimal condition.
- Use Protective Gear – Consider wearing protective accessories like sweatbands over your hearing aids during workouts to guard against moisture without hindering your active lifestyle.
- Mindful Device Removal – Do your best to make removing your hearing aids a reflex before any aquatic activities or situations likely to induce heavy sweating. You can develop this habit by simply leaving a reminder on your shower door or placing a note in your gym bag.
- Battery Care – Battery corrosion is another water-related hearing aid problem. Maintain your device’s reliability by frequently inspecting your hearing aid batteries for damage and replacing them as necessary.
- Be Weather-Wise – Stay alert to the forecast and use protective measures like hats or umbrellas to shield your hearing aids from the elements during adverse weather conditions.
- Regular Professional Checkups – Catch potential issues early by scheduling regular maintenance visits with your hearing healthcare provider. Our specialists at Hearing Health Connection are happy to provide thorough cleanings and inspections for moisture damage.
Hearing Health Connection – Your Hearing Aid Care Partner
It can be easy to forget that your hearing aids accompany you into all sorts of environments and weather the elements along with you. Stay prepared by knowing how to react if they encounter their kryptonite – water.
Taking precautionary measures can help protect your hearing aids from water damage, but unfortunately, incidents sometimes happen despite our best efforts. That’s where we step in. Hearing Health Connection is dedicated to providing top-notch audiological support, from advanced hearing aid solutions to personalized device maintenance services.
If you’re experiencing hearing aid issues from water exposure, reach out to us or book an appointment online. Our team is here to offer expert hearing aid repairs, hearing aid replacements, and preventative care strategies so you can continue to enjoy the sounds that enrich your life. Whether you need new hearing aids or troubleshooting advice, contact Hearing Health Connection today and partner with our team for a clear, confident hearing future.