Whether you’ve recently been diagnosed with hearing loss or have been advised to invest in new hearing aids, the need to maintain and take care of your devices is important. While there are many different components to consider, any audiologist will confirm that the batteries are among the most important.

As a responsible hearing aids user, then, you must pay attention to the various types of batteries to purchase the right solution for you. Here’s all you need to know.

Why are hearing aid batteries so vital?

Hearing aids are life-changing devices that have the power to restore some normality to your daily life, but only if they actually have the power. Unfortunately, the wrong choice of batteries will lead to a series of issues. While stopping the hearing aids from turning on is the most obvious, there are plenty more.

The list of faults experienced with inadequate batteries can extend to intermittent cutting out, reduced volume, feedback, and more. Essentially, then, it’s imperative that choose the right batteries to ensure that your hearing aids will perform as expected.

Besides, hearing aid batteries already need to be replaced on a regular basis, making them one of the biggest expenses associated with wearing hearing aids. When you choose an inferior product, the situation will become worse.

The different types of hearing aid batteries explained

In today’s market, zinc-air batteries are the most commonly used batteries for hearing aid devices. They are activated by removing a sticker, which allows oxygen to enter and turn them on. They can also be stored at room temperature for up to three years prior to use, which makes them a practical option for anyone wishing to stock up.

Zinc-air batteries are commonly available in four main sizes and are color-coded to make the buying process a lot simpler. The four types are as follows:

Blue

The clue-coded, zinc-air hearing aid batteries, otherwise known as size 675, are designed to work primarily in behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids. Most brands will last for around nine to 20 days, depending on how many hours they are used each day, along with how they are stored.

Blue-coded hearing aid batteries usually the largest option, which is unsurprising given that they are used for BTEs.

Orange

Orange coded hearing aid batteries can be used with several BTE hearing aids, as well as in-the-ear (ITE) devices. They are smaller than the blue ones and have an average lifespan of six to 14 days depending on the level of use and the finer details of the brand and model that’s selected.

The orange-coded, zinc-air hearing aid batteries are often referred to as size 13.

Brown

Brown coded zinc-air hearing aid batteries, otherwise known as size 312, are the most common solution on the market. They can be used with mini BTE devices, as well as receiver-in-the-ear (RITE) and in-the-canal (ITC) devices and usually last for up to 10 days.

Being the most common battery, they are available from many brands while a large selection of devices are designed with this type of cell in mind.

Yellow

The smallest battery in size is the yellow coded zinc air hearing aids. Given their small size, they tend to last for a maximum duration of one week. However, they can fit inside mini RITE and completely-in-canal (CIC) devices, which are far smaller than other hearing aids. Their code is 10.

They are typically the best choice for individuals wanting to wear a hearing aid that is less visible to other people.

What else needs to be considered?

In addition to finding the right type of hearing aid battery, you’ll want to consider the brand and model of batteries being selected. While the contrasts between the different options aren’t huge, they will make a noticeable difference to the ongoing situation.

Meanwhile, many hearing aid users now opt for rechargeable batteries instead of disposable ones. While they are a little more expensive, they will provide value for money in the long run. These operate by recharging on a station overnight or at another time when you are not wearing your devices.

Find the right hearing aid batteries today

Now that you know what to consider, finding the perfect hearing aid batteries should be a lot easier. Nonetheless, speaking to an audiologist at Tops Hearing & Balance Center is the best way to ensure that you get the right batteries for your device.

To learn more or book an appointment today, call us at (713) 568-4822.