Hearing Aid Repair 101: Common Issues and When to Seek Professional Help

When it comes to hearing aids, there's something that is super important but often overlooked: hearing aid maintenance and repair. It may not be the most glamorous task, but trust me, if you want to keep hearing clearly (and save some money in the long run), consider adding to your list regular maintenance for your hearing aids.

Why Maintenance Matters

Let's start with the basics. Your hearing aids are tiny powerhouses of technology that you wear all day, every day. They're exposed to moisture, earwax, and all sorts of environmental factors. It's like wearing a miniature computer in your ear - and just like your smartphone or laptop, hearing aids need regular TLC to keep working their best.

Regular maintenance does a few key things:

1. Keeps your hearing aids working at peak performance
2. Extends their lifespan (hello, cost savings!)
3. Prevents unexpected breakdowns (because nobody wants to be caught with non-functioning hearing aids in the middle of an important conversation)

DIY Maintenance: What You Can Do at Home

You don't have to become a hearing aid repair expert overnight, but there are some simple things you can do at home to keep your devices in good shape:

1. Clean your hearing aids daily with a soft, dry cloth. Think of it like brushing your teeth - a quick wipe-down every night can make a big difference.
2. Store them in a cool, dry place when you're not using them. Your nightstand is good; your steamy bathroom, not so much.
3. Replace wax guards regularly. These little guys are your first line of defense against earwax buildup.
4. Handle with care. I know it's tempting to toss them on the nightstand, but treat your hearing aids like the valuable tech they are.

Remember, these steps are great, but they don't replace professional maintenance. It's like how brushing your teeth doesn't replace going to the dentist. Speaking of which...

When to See the Pros

We recommend bringing your hearing aids in for a professional clean and check at least every six months. Why? Because we have the tools and expertise to catch potential issues before they become big problems.

Regular cleanings also help prevent earwax buildup. While a little earwax is normal and healthy, too much can clog up your hearing aid. An expert audiologist can do a deep clean that gets rid of wax and debris you might not even be able to see.

Common Hearing Aid Issues (And What They Might Mean)

Even with the best care, hearing aids can sometimes act up. Here are some common issues we see:

1. Weak or no sound: This could be a simple fix like a dead battery, or it might indicate a blocked microphone or malfunctioning receiver.
2. Whistling or feedback: Often, this is due to an improper fit or excessive earwax. But don't worry, we can help with both!
3. Intermittent sound: This might be a sign of a loose connection or moisture damage. Either way, it's best to get it checked out.
4. Distorted sound: If things are sounding "off," it could be a failing microphone or speaker.

If you're experiencing any of these issues, don't panic! But also don't ignore them. The sooner you bring your hearing aids in, the easier (and often cheaper) they are to fix.

Our Repair Services: What Happens When You Bring Your Hearing Aids In

When you bring your hearing aids to us, we don't just give them a quick once-over. We put them through a thorough diagnostic process:

1. We start with a visual inspection, looking for any obvious damage or wear.
2. Then we give them a good cleaning - you'd be surprised how often this solves the problem!
3. Next, we use our professional electronic testing equipment to check for any internal issues.
4. Finally, after any necessary repairs, we verify that everything's working as it should.

We can handle most repairs right here in our office, often on the same day. Battery door replacements, microphone and receiver repairs, even fixing moisture damage - we've got you covered.

And speaking of moisture damage, consider regular professional moisture-removal for your devices, especially if you use them often. We rely on commercial-grade Redux dehydration equipment, which is amazing for reversing moisture damage, especially during those sweaty Phoenix summers.

When Manufacturer Repairs Are Needed

Now, I'll be straight with you - sometimes a repair is beyond our in-house capabilities. In those cases, we'll facilitate the repair with the manufacturer, whether it's in-warranty or out-of-warranty. We'll handle all the details, so you don't have to worry about a thing.

Prevention is Better Than Cure: Our Maintenance Plans

You know how they say "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure"? Well, that's definitely true for hearing aids. That's why we offer preventive maintenance plans. These include regular professional cleaning, component checks, software updates, and adjustments to ensure your hearing aids are always performing at their best.

When It Might Be Time for New Hearing Aids

Consider an upgrade if your current aids are over 5-7 years old, your hearing needs have significantly changed, or frequent breakdowns occur. Making the decision between repairing and replacing hearing aids can be challenging. Our goal is to assist you in weighing the advantages and disadvantages to make the best decision for your hearing and financial well-being. Our expertise and guidance are at your disposal to help you navigate this process.

Let's Keep Those Hearing Aids in Top Shape!

Your hearing is precious, and your hearing aids play a crucial role in keeping you connected to the world around you. Don't wait for problems to arise - be proactive about your hearing aid care.

Whether you need a routine check-up, are experiencing issues with your devices, or just want to learn more about proper maintenance, we're here to help. Our team of expert audiologists - that's me (Dr. Cliff), Dr. Leslie Balderas, Dr. Rachael Cook, and Dr. Kelsey Beck - are ready to assist you with all your hearing aid needs.

Give us a call at 602-877-0000 to schedule your appointment. Let's work together to keep your hearing aids - and your hearing - in tip-top shape. Because at Applied Hearing Solutions, we're not just treating hearing loss - we're helping you stay connected to the sounds and people you love.