Nearly 28.8 million Americans could benefit from using hearing aids. As temperatures rise headed into spring and summer, hearing aid users need to take extra precautions to ensure their devices continue functioning properly.
High heat, humidity and outdoor activities can present challenges, but with the right care, you can keep your hearing aids working at their best all summer long.
How Hot Weather Can Affect Your Hearing Aids
Summer activities like enjoying the Athens Farmers Market can expose your hearing aids to conditions that may impact their performance. Here are a few challenges to keep in mind:
Heat and Sun Exposure
Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and extreme heat can overheat your hearing aids, potentially damaging internal components and reducing battery life. Like any tech device, leaving your hearing aids in direct sunlight for too long can cause overheating.
Sweat and Humidity
Georgia summers can be humid and sweat or moisture buildup in your hearing aids can lead to malfunctions. Therefore, devices must be protected from moisture to prevent corrosion.
Dust and Pollen
In warmer weather dust and pollen can end up in hearing aids’ microphones and vents, reducing their effectiveness. Outdoor events or even just walking around town can expose your devices to these airborne particles.
Battery Drain Issues
High temperatures can cause batteries to drain faster than usual, meaning you may need to replace or recharge them more frequently. If you use rechargeable hearing aids, overheating can also affect charging efficiency.
Best Practices for Protecting Your Hearing Aids in the Heat
A few small precautions can go a long way in keeping your hearing aids in great shape throughout the summer months. Here’s what you can do:
Store Them in a Cool, Dry Place
When you’re not using your hearing aids, keep them somewhere cool and shaded. Avoid leaving them anywhere they’d be exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods.
Use Moisture Protection
- Invest in a hearing aid dehumidifier to remove excess moisture overnight.
- Use sweat-resistant covers or hearing aid sleeves if you’re planning to spend time outdoors.
- After sweating, wipe your hearing aids with a dry cloth to remove excess moisture before storing them.
Keep Them Clean
- Wipe down your hearing aids daily to remove dust, pollen and sweat buildup.
- Use a small cleaning brush to prevent debris from clogging the microphone and vents.
- Consider scheduling a professional cleaning with a hearing specialist.
By taking these simple steps, you can be proactive about keeping your hearing aids running optimally during warmer months. If you notice any performance issues, reach out to a local hearing specialist for a professional cleaning or adjustment.
Contact ENT of Athens today to schedule an appointment.