Hearing Aid Trouble? Try These Quick Fixes

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Just like smartphones or wireless earbuds, hearing aids can have occasional issues. Maybe the batteries aren’t lasting as long as expected, there’s an annoying whistling sound, or the device has gone silent altogether. Whatever the hitch, it’s important to address it promptly.

No need to worry. Many common issues have simple solutions you can perform at home. Pinpointing the problem is more than half the battle, and the following quick fixes may be just what you need to get your devices back to working properly.

 

Hearing Aids Are Whistling, Buzzing, or Giving Feedback

Hearing aids rely on three main components: a microphone that picks up sound, an amplifier to louden the sound, and a receiver to deliver the sound to your ear. The more sophisticated the technology, the more it can be personalized to your specific hearing needs and the more likely it has built-in mechanisms for automatically adapting to your environment and preferences.

If, however, a bit of the amplified sound boomerangs from the ear canal back to the microphone, you might experience some feedback. The feedback may come across as a squeal, a wind-like noise, a whistling sound, a high-pitched buzz, or similar audio. Thankfully, many of today’s modern devices are already designed to help reduce the issue.

Experiencing some feedback? Try these steps:

• Make sure your device’s earmold or dome is inserted or set appropriately.
• Check your device’s volume, ensuring it’s not too loud.
• Change out the wax filter, if applicable.
• Create some distance between any object in your hand and the hearing aid.
• Address any excess buildup of cerumen or earwax, whether through professional care or safe DIY methods.

 

Sound Seems Distorted or Weak

If the sound’s not coming through as strongly as it should, one underlying issue could be the hearing aid battery:

• If the hearing aids use disposable batteries, make sure the batteries are the right ones for your specific devices, free from dust and dirt, and replaced if old or potentially not working well.
• If the device is a rechargeable hearing aid, give it a good charge — first checking your manual for appropriate procedures — and make sure the charger itself is also fully charged.

The problem could lie with a clogged earmold, which can simply be cleaned. Another source could be moisture in the device, which can be remedied with a hearing aid dryer, a dehumidifier, or a gentle wiping of the hearing aid before letting it fully dry.

Another possibility is a broken receiver wire, depending on the type of hearing aid, which would likely require taking it in for professional care.

 

You’re Getting Nothing But Silence

If your hearing aid isn’t producing sound, check to ensure it’s on, the battery’s installed, and the microphone isn’t muted.

Try these steps if the problem persists:

• If there’s already a battery installed, replace it with a fresh one.
• For rechargeable models, check that both the hearing aid and the charger are fully charged.
• Gently clean the earmold or receiver if clogged, following directions for your specific device.

If the hearing aid has a receiver wire that’s been damaged, you’ll probably — as mentioned above — need professional repair, during which your device can get a thorough check.

 

Batteries Seem to Drain Too Fast

Do your hearing aid batteries seem to run out of juice a little too quickly? This might be triggered by leaving the devices on for extended periods. Turning hearing aids off when not in use — including properly storing them overnight — can make a difference.

In some cases, the problem may be old batteries:

• For disposable batteries, check the packaging and keep a record of their estimated expiration date — if listed — as well as the date you installed them in the device.
• For rechargeable hearing aids that have been in operation a while — three to four years — consider taking them in for a professional evaluation.

 

Rechargeable Hearing Aid Is Having Charging Issues

The convenience of rechargeable hearing aids can’t be beat. Just plug in, charge, and go. If something seems to be getting in the way of quick and easy charging, make sure the:

• Hearing device is set appropriately in the charging cradle or dock.
• Charger is plugged into the power outlet and fully charged.

 

Background Noise Feels Overwhelming

Many modern hearing aids are equipped to combat noise for a better listening experience. Directional mics and other features help automatically highlight speech and other desired sounds while filtering out distractions. Our skilled team can work with you to personalize the device’s built-in capabilities for your individual needs.

Still experiencing too much background noise? Try these steps:

• Lean into your compatible hearing aid app, if available for your device, that may have settings to further minimize unwanted sounds.
• If pairing with a Bluetooth®* accessory that requires a companion app, make sure the app and your internet — if required for the app — are working.
• Use the telecoil or T-coil function on your device, if available, to tap into hearing loops that some theaters, lecture halls, and other public spots have installed for easier listening within their venues.
• Try to minimize distracting sounds by controlling your environment, including turning other audio sources down or off, closing the door to background noise, or keeping the noise behind you.

 

Hearing Aids and Bluetooth Won’t Connect

Bluetooth connectivity has opened another level of capabilities for modern digital hearing aids. It makes streaming a breeze, with music, phone calls, video conversations, and other audio sent directly from a sound source to your hearing devices.

If you’re having trouble pairing your hearing technology with another Bluetooth-enabled electronic device, these steps might be just the trick:

• Make sure Bluetooth is activated on both your hearing aid and the other equipment.
• Confirm the devices aren’t already paired, which may automatically occur at times.
• Ensure your equipment is within range for the connection to take place.
• Check that any app or Wi-Fi access needed to work with the other device is on.
• Unpair other devices that may already be paired with the equipment you’re trying to pair.
• Consider restarting the pairing process, following the instructions in the hearing aid manual.

 

Expert Device Care: We’re HEAR to Help!

DIY goes a long way, but some hearing aid issues may need professional care. Let us know if there’s:

• Physical damage, such as a broken casing, cracked tubing, or exposed wires, should be evaluated and repaired by a professional.
• Continual distortion, feedback, or muffled sound may require professional fine-tuning of the settings or additional troubleshooting.
• Frequent battery drain, power fluctuations, or failure to power up might reflect an internal problem needing professional assessment and repair.
• Excess earwax and moisture accumulation inside device can affect performance. Regular DIY cleaning is important, but periodic professional cleaning is also integral for long-term functionality.
• Persistent discomfort or frequent dislodging of the hearing aid may require professional adjustment to assess the problem and ensure a comfortable, snug fit.
• Significant changes in hearing could affect how well the device’s settings meet your needs. Our team can assess the changes and potentially adjust the hearing aid settings accordingly.
• Device is due for professional clean and check, which should be scheduled about every six months to help your hearing aids stay in top shape.

Some hearing aids now feature Auracast™* broadcast audio, the next generation in Bluetooth capability that enhances audio streaming, making it easier to hear clearly in noisy environments. As more venues adopt this technology, you’ll have even more opportunities to enjoy high-quality sound, whether in theaters, airports, or other public spaces.

Want help with your hearing aids? Has it been a while since your device’s last professional clean and check? No need to search for “hearing aid repairs near me.” We’re local, experienced, and at your service. Contact Worth Hearing Center today to get your questions answered or to book an appointment with our knowledgeable team!

*The Bluetooth word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. The Auracast word mark and logos are trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc.

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