How long do hearing aids last?
Last Updated December 24, 2022
By Arash G
GM House of Hearing Clinics
Modern technology is constantly transforming hearing aids and making them better and better. But as with any electronic device that offers so many technically advanced features, users want to know just how long do hearing aids last.
The answer depends on a range of factors including how well you maintain and look after your new hearing aids, how many hours a day you use them, and the make and model. The short answer is, hearing aids, in most cases, should last around three to five years.
Many hearing aids last well beyond that but most people want to upgrade their hearing aids to keep pace with the amazing new technical innovations and evolutions. And you may also need to get new hearing aids as your hearing changes.
Some extraordinary hearing aids, such as the Lyric, which can be worn 24/7, have a very short lifespan. Lyric hearing aids require regular replacement every 4 months. You need to visit a hearing professional for this service. But this is a special case and the benefits truly outweigh the disadvantages for many users.
So, what can you do to make your hearing aids last longer?
Making your hearing aids last longer
Today’s hearing aids are complex, sensitive devices and the electrical circuitry does not cope well with moisture, body fluids, or rough treatment. In simple terms, if you look after your hearing aids you can expect them to look after your hearing for a long time.
Your House of Hearing professional will show you how to clean and maintain your hearing aids during your hearing aid fitting sessions. But here are some basic steps you can take to make sure you get the best from your hearing aids.
- Keep them clean: Remove wax and dust daily (especially from microphone ports) and that includes the recharging pod too.
- Store them in a clean, dry place when not in use. Humidity is a killer for electronics, so storing them on a window ledge that is exposed to condensation is a no-no. Likewise, temperature extremes, such as leaving them in the hot sun may damage the case and the internal workings.
- Follow any additional steps your hearing professional recommends such as regular professional checkups for your hearing aids. There may be inaccessible parts that need expert cleaning from time to time.
- Treat your hearing aids gently. Rough, careless treatment such as dropping them can easily damage the internal connections.
So, what other factors determine how long your hearing aids will last?
Construction materials
One of the design challenges facing hearing aid manufacturers is the need to make tiny, discreet hearing aids that can still contain all the sophisticated computer-type circuitry without sacrificing durability.
That’s why not all hearing aids are created equal. The well-known hearing aid manufacturers use extremely durable construction techniques and materials to ensure your hearing aids will last for a long time. Companies such as Phonak use titanium to produce exceptionally strong hearing aids that combine lightweight comfort and near-invisible design with high performance.
Unfortunately, some people buy into the hearing aid price myth and buy cheap hearing aids online. The reality is cheap hearing aids usually lack the advanced technology that can transform your listening experience. They also rely on inferior quality materials, design and construction techniques. This means you’ll experience a frustrating listening experience as well as the constant need to replace them.
Technological advances
Modern technology is advancing so rapidly that hearing aids are out of date after 5 years. Just think about how quickly Smartphones and smart appliances are changing; hearing aid design is evolving, if anything, even faster.
For many hearing aid users the importance of keeping up with hearing aid developments such as automated listening programs and doorbell and smoke detectors is vital. So you too may want to upgrade your hearing aids even though there is plenty of life left in your current model.
You may want the latest advanced customization features that can add so much to your life or to be able to take advantage of enhanced connectivity. Maybe you are tired of having to change batteries every 10 days or so and now want to enjoy the advantages of the latest generation of rechargeable batteries. No matter how your life and your hearing changes, you can rely on House of Hearing to help you find the perfect hearing aid for your needs.
But you may also be quite content to stay with your oldie but goodie hearing aids. And that’s fine too but you may find it harder to get replacement parts as technology moves on and manufacturers no longer stock parts. And sometimes the cost of repairing older models hearing aids simply becomes too exorbitant.
Changing needs
There is another reason why you may need to upgrade your hearing aid before it’s worn out. You may have noticed that you don’t seem to be hearing as well as you used to. It could be that your hearing aid is blocked or wearing out but it could also be that your hearing has changed.
Hearing loss is a common part of the aging process and so you can expect your hearing to change over time. And if you need new hearing aids talk to your expert House of Hearing audiologist. We can supply and fit a wide range of hearing aids from the major manufacturers including Phonak, Oticon, Starkey, Siemens, and Widex.
It’s our job to help you get the best hearing experience you can and we don’t want budget or finance issues to get in the way. That’s why we offer the best value guarantee. You might also be eligible for some government financial aid or medical insurance programmes that can provide significant financial support.
Whether your hearing aids are dying a natural death or you just want to take advantage of the latest technology talk to us. It’s our job to listen so you can hear better.
Let’s help you! We are your local hearing clinic, specializing in hearing tests, hearing aid prescription & fitting, ear wax management, custom earplugs, and tinnitus consultation.
House of Hearing has a broad portfolio of options available to treat mild up to even profound hearing loss. Please talk with us today about how we can get you hearing better with top brands of hearing aids. We’ll walk you through the process and ensure you’re getting the best possible hearing aid for your needs.
We understand that not everyone is the same, so we offer a variety of services to choose from including:
What are you waiting for? Improve your hearing today!
More From our Library