With summer here, it’s a good time to remember that hearing aids, like most high-tech devices, are susceptible to excess heat and moisture. And while Starkey hearing aids are more durable than most — thanks to our proprietary Surface™ NanoShield moisture-repellent system — keeping these five tips in mind will help ensure long-lasting performance even as the temperatures rise.
1. Keep hearing aids stored in a cool, dry place.
Excess heat can harm the hearing aid circuit (the tiny computer chip that serves as the “brain” of the hearing aid). Excessive moisture can gather on the diaphragm of the microphone and/or receiver, resulting in the perception of a “dead” hearing aid.
2. Use a desiccant, hearing aid dehumidifier or “dry-aid” kit to keep moisture out of the hearing aids.
A desiccant is a moisture absorbing substance that is commonly found in dry goods such as shoes, clothes and electronics. There are inexpensive desiccant and dry-aid kits available from your hearing healthcare provider that are designed specifically for hearing instruments, including the hearing aid dehumidifier shown below.
3. Store the desiccant in a sealed, dry place.
If the desiccant is exposed to the environment, it will pull moisture from the environment. Keeping the desiccant in a controlled environment will ensure the longest life possible of the desiccant.
4. If possible, keep the hearing instruments away from excessive perspiration.
As mentioned, excess moisture – including sweat – can damage hearing instruments. Starkey hearing aids can handle normal perspiration. However, if the hearing aids are exposed to excessive perspiration, it is best to remove them immediately and open the battery doors so that air can circulate through the hearing aids. Even better, place the hearing instruments in the desiccant kit you bought after reading tips 2 and 3!
5. Do not use any type of liquid to “clean” the hearing instruments – even alcohol.
Liquids are simply many moisture molecules clustered together. Therefore, liquids can damage parts of the hearing aids. To clean the instruments, wipe them down with a clean, soft cloth and store them in a place that has access to air flow.
For more tips on warm-weather hearing aid maintenance, talk to your hearing healthcare provider.
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