Hearing aids are inevitably in need of repair as a result of normal wear and tear, age, and use. While entirely replacing a hearing aid is one option, it’s almost always in your best interest to seek a hearing aid repair service first. If an issue isn’t that elaborate, troubleshooting measures may even be conducted right at home on your own.
At Associating Hearing Professionals, our team of audiologists can help you repair your hearing aids, whenever possible, to ensure you get the full extent of their use. If you suspect your devices are malfunctioning or they aren’t turning on, be sure to reach out as soon as possible to schedule a hearing aid repair service at our St. Louis or Chesterfield location.
Top Signs Your Hearing Aids Need Repair
According to AARP, hearing aids have an average lifespan of five years, though some newer devices can last longer — up to 10-12 years.
Over this timeframe, natural wear and tear, accidental damage, and device malfunction can lead to the need for repair. Some of the most common hearing aid issues you may encounter include:
- Physical damage to the device
- Distorted or crackling sound quality, whistling coming from the hearing aid, or no sound at all when worn
- Fluctuating volume or inability to adjust the volume
- Device no longer turns on
It’s natural to experience technology issues when you wear hearing aids. But if the hearing aid isn’t entirely broken, repairing them instead of replacing them can help you make optimal use of your device.
Common Repairs for Hearing Aids
Sometimes, repairing your hearing aids is as simple as a few troubleshooting tricks you can do at home.
A few of the many common fixes for hearing aids include:
- Replacing the battery
- Troubleshooting the charger
- Removing and reinserting the hearing aid
- Cleaning it
You can also take it a step further by:
- Replacing the wax filter
- Opening and closing the battery compartment
- Resetting the aid if rechargeable
However, if you are still experiencing issues with your hearing aid after you’ve tried these troubleshooting techniques, we encourage professional repair at Associated Hearing Professionals. We offer repairs on most hearing aids from major manufacturers and can diagnose and correct the issue for you.
Cost of Hearing Aid Repair Under Warranty and Out of Warranty
There are several contributing factors involved in repairs that will determine the time and cost it may take to have your hearing aid working correctly again. The first major point to address is whether or not the hearing aid is still under warranty. If it is, then your repair cost may be small, or possibly free.
Those that are no longer under warranty and require substantial repairs could come with a heftier fee.
The next item is whether or not the hearing aid is extensively damaged. If the repair needed is substantial it will cost more than a quick-fix issue.
When you schedule an evaluation with Associated Hearing Professionals, our audiologists will examine your device and offer full transparency about your options for repair. We will weigh the pros and cons of repairing vs. replacing your hearing aid so you can make the most informed decision.
When a Hearing Aid Is Beyond Repair
There are certain factors that may help you to know whether or not your hearing aid is beyond repair. You may want to consider investing in new hearing aids if:
- The hearing aid is greater than five to seven years old and newer, improved, hearing aid technology is available.
- Your device has extensive, visible damage (ex: your hearing aid has been smashed or stepped on).
- Your hearing aids have been repaired multiple times in the past and are no longer under warranty.
In general, a history of repair tends to equate to a history of broken technology or habitual circumstances. Replacing repeatedly broken hearing aids may be better for you in the long run, as opposed to dealing with continuous, recurring reasons for repairs.
Best Practices to Avoid Hearing Aid Damage
If you have new hearing aids, you know that they require special measures of care in order to continue proper function.
When you first receive your hearing aids, our Audiologists will show you how to care for and check them regularly for optimal use. Perhaps you’ve obtained tools such as a battery tester, cleaning tools, wax guards, and a drying container to help with these measures of regular care.
Whether you use tools or just these tips, it’s best to always follow the proper protocol for hearing aid care.
Do a sound test
First on the list of regular hearing aid maintenance is the listening check. Doing so helps you to make sure that they sound clear, as opposed to scratchy or weak.
Check your batteries
Next, if the hearing aid uses disposable batteries, is the regular check of batteries, which generally last four days to two weeks, depending on the size of the battery. With a battery tester, you can ensure that your hearing aids’ batteries are operating at full strength so that your hearing aids are working at peak performance as a result.
It’s recommended that you always have a spare pair of batteries stored in a cool, dry place. Also, keep in mind that batteries are toxic and should be handled with care and disposed of properly, one at a time.
If your aids are rechargeable, make sure the charger has power and the aids are charging correctly. Further, it is important to make sure your hearing aids are on when you take them out of the charger.
Clean your devices daily
It’s important to clean your hearing aids every day to avoid debris buildup.
When you clean your hearing aids, use a soft, dry cloth. As you clean, be sure to check for dirt and grime. Your audiologist will teach you how to clean your aids and how to change the wax guard or wax filter.
Avoid moisture
In order for your hearing aids to continue to function properly, be sure to minimize moisture in them. A hearing aid drying container can help with the prevention of moisture buildup inside the hearing aids, and doing so will increase their lifespan considerably. Some chargers have desiccants which help to remove moisture from rechargeable aids.
Keep note of any feedback
Hearing feedback while wearing your hearing aids can be frustrating. This whistling sound comes straight from the hearing aid as a result of amplified sound reentering the microphone(s).
If you do hear this feedback, it may be a sign that the aid is not placed in the ear correctly or that the fit needs to be checked. It could also indicate that there is too much earwax in the ear canal. If you begin to experience feedback, talk to the audiologist about it. While many individuals lean towards the immediate action of turning down the volume on the hearing aid, doing so will actively reduce the feedback — but it will also reduce your ability to hear the important sounds, as well.
Visit your audiologist frequently
Regularly scheduled audiology visits are important to ensure that you are getting the most out of your hearing aids. They’re also essential to check the performance of the hearing aids so you can make necessary adjustments, as needed.
These appointments can make all the difference in the lifespan of your hearing aids, as our audiologists can catch and fix any budding issues before you even know that they’re present.
Hearing Aid Repair Service FAQs
How often should I get my hearing aids serviced?
Regular maintenance is key for your hearing aids. Aim for a professional check-up every six months, with a more detailed service annually. If you encounter issues or changes in hearing quality, seek immediate service from a hearing aid expert. Regular maintenance ensures longevity and efficient functioning.
How long will the repair take?
The duration of hearing aid repairs varies based on the nature of the issue. Minor fixes might be resolved on the spot or within a day. However, more complex repairs or those requiring parts might take up to a week or more. When you visit us for an evaluation, we’ll assess the extent of your damaged hearing aids and let you know an estimated time frame for repairs.
What should I do if I get my hearing aid wet?
If your hearing aid becomes wet, first turn it off and carefully remove the battery. Gently pat the exterior dry with a soft cloth and avoid using any direct heat sources, such as hairdryers. It’s best to place the hearing aid in a dehumidifying container or a dry kit to thoroughly remove any internal moisture. Once you believe it’s dry, reinsert the battery and test its functionality.
If you detect any irregularities, schedule an appointment with our hearing aid repair technicians, and we’ll help you determine the next steps.
How do I know if my hearing aid’s battery needs replacement or if it’s a technical issue?
A simple way to determine the cause is by inserting a new battery. If this resolves the issue, the battery was the problem. However, continued malfunctions hint at a technical fault. Always double-check that you’re using the appropriate battery size and that it’s correctly positioned.
Further, it’s recommended by most hearing aid battery manufacturers to let the battery rest without the sticker on the back for approximately one to three minutes before putting a new battery into the hearing aid. This can increase battery life by a few hours up to a few days.
Can the volume or programming of my hearing aid be adjusted during a repair visit?
Yes, during your repair visit, we can adjust the volume or reprogram your hearing aid based on your needs. This is also a good opportunity to discuss any changes in your hearing or preferences. If you’re encountering changes in your hearing, it’s a strong signal to adjust your hearing aids with a tune-up.
Why Associated Hearing Professionals
The audiologists at Associated Hearing Professionals have over 70 years of hearing care experience in the St. Louis, MO metropolitan area. We take pride in our staff and in offering the highest level of care for each and every patient.
Our audiologists have completed the rigorous educational requirements and experience to earn a certificate of clinical competence (Certificate of Clinical Competence – Audiology) from the American Speech–Language–Hearing Association, which is the professional association for audiologists, and speech, language, and hearing scientists.
All of our audiologists are also certified as Fellows of the American Academy of Audiology:
- Margaret Fritsch Juelich, AuD., CCC-A, FAAA
- Tina Daher McWhorter, M.A., CCC-A, FAAA
- Lauren Davis, AuD., CCC-A, FAAA
- Michelle Brooks, AuD, CCC-A, FAAA
What Our Patients Say
“Associated Hearing Professionals have been meeting my needs for better hearing (thereby better living) since it opened. Margaret Juelich has been my Audiologist for at least 20 years and has constantly supplied me with the best hearing aids to meet my needs. She and her staff are very knowledgeable and make sure you are fitted with the best instruments to improve your hearing. I am very pleased with the service they give you and would never go anywhere else.” – Verdie B – Chesterfield, MO
*Disclaimer: Testimonials reflect an individual patient’s experience and may not depict the expected results for others.
Hearing Aid Repairs in St. Louis and Chesterfield
Searching for “hearing aid repair near me” in St. Louis or Chesterfield? Our team at Associated Hearing Professionals is here to help you get your devices working at optimal performance as quickly as possible.
Schedule your hearing aid repair service today, and see how we can put you on the path to better hearing.