The choice to get hearing aids is an important one. Currently, an estimated 28.8 million U.S. adults could benefit from using hearing aids. Finding the right pair can improve your physical, mental and emotional health and let you continue to live your life the way you want. Deciding what pair to get largely depends on your individual hearing needs and preferences.
One choice that will be important to make is what kind of battery you want to use for your device. Let’s examine some of your options to see what might be right for you.
Types of Hearing Aid Batteries
Many hearing aids use disposable zinc-air batteries that are color and number-coded for easy replacement. The type of replaceable battery needed depends on the style and size of your hearing aids and includes 5 (red), 10 (yellow), 13 (orange), 312 (brown) and 675 (blue).
More recently, rechargeable hearing aids have gained in popularity. They use lithium-ion batteries and come with a docking station for overnight charging.
Differences Between Rechargeable and Standard Batteries
Obviously one of the biggest differences in disposable versus rechargeable batteries is the lifespan.
Disposable batteries can last anywhere from three days to three weeks depending on battery size, style of your hearing aids, degree of hearing loss, amount of use, and if you stream any media into your device.
Most rechargeable batteries can last 20-30 hours between charges, much of that also depending on the same factors as disposable batteries, such as the amount of use. For that reason, it’s recommended to charge your hearing aids nightly while you sleep. The actual battery itself can last between 4-5 years before needing to be replaced.
How to Choose What’s Right for You?
When it comes to choosing what battery is right for you, there really is no wrong answer. It’s whatever works best for you and your lifestyle. For instance, if you travel a lot and like the idea of not having to throw extra batteries into your bag before you head off to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, rechargeable batteries might work better for you.
However, rechargeable batteries are not always available in every style. So, if you like a style that doesn’t have that option, disposable batteries could be the way to go.
Consider writing out a pros and cons list that includes things like usability, convenience, style and cost. By figuring out what’s most important to you, you and your audiologist can help select the perfect pair for you.
To learn more or to schedule an appointment with a hearing aid expert, call the Georgia Hearing Center at ENT of Athens today.