Summer can be a challenging season for those who wear hearing aids. High temperatures, humidity, and exposure to water and sweat can damage hearing aids and compromise their performance.
As a hearing aid user, it is essential to take proactive measures to protect your devices during the summer months. Here are some tips for keeping your hearing aids safe in the summer heat, including protection from moisture and extreme temperatures.
Protection from Moisture
Moisture can pose a significant risk to hearing aids, especially during the hot and humid summer months. Water can damage the internal components of hearing aids, causing malfunctions and costly repairs. Here are some ways to protect your hearing aids from moisture:
1. Invest in Waterproof Covers
Waterproof covers are designed to safeguard hearing aids from water damage, making them ideal for summer activities such as swimming, kayaking, or watersports. These covers typically feature a soft, flexible silicone or plastic material that fits snugly over the hearing aid to prevent water from entering the device. Waterproof covers can be purchased from many hearing aid suppliers and come in various sizes to fit different types and styles of hearing aids.
2. Use a Drying Kit
Drying kits or dehumidifiers are designed to remove moisture from hearing aids and prolong their lifespan. These kits typically use a drying agent such as silica gel or a desiccant to absorb moisture and keep the hearing aids dry. Drying kits are especially useful during the summer months when humidity levels are high. They can be purchased online or from hearing aid suppliers.
3. Remove Hearing Aids Before Showering or Swimming
As tempting as it may be to wear hearing aids while swimming or showering, it is important to remove them before exposing them to water. Even waterproof covers may not provide full protection from water damage, and the moisture can still seep into the device and cause damage. Plan ahead and take off your hearing aids before any water activities to keep them safe and functional.
Protection from Extreme Temperatures
Extreme temperatures can also pose a significant risk to hearing aids during the summer. High temperatures can cause hearing aids to malfunction, melt, or warp, and extreme cold temperatures can drain the battery life. Here are some ways to protect your hearing aids from extreme temperatures:
1. Store Hearing Aids in a Cool and Dry Place
One of the best ways to protect hearing aids from high temperatures is to store them in a cool and dry place when they are not in use. Avoid leaving them in direct sunlight or in hot cars, as this can cause them to overheat and become damaged. Instead, opt for a dark, dry, and cool place, such as a bedside table or desk drawer.
2. Keep Spare Batteries Handy
High temperatures can affect the lifespan and performance of hearing aid batteries, causing them to drain faster than usual. Always carry a backup set of batteries, especially when spending extended periods outdoors. As a general rule, hearing aid batteries should be stored at room temperature away from direct sunlight, humidity, or extreme temperatures.
3. Choose Suitable Hearing Aid Styles
Some hearing aid styles may be more suitable for hot summer weather than others. For example, behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids tend to be more resistant to moisture and are better able to withstand extreme temperatures than in-the-ear (ITE) or receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aids. Full-shell or half-shell hearing aids also tend to be larger and more durable, making them a good choice for the summer. Consult with your hearing healthcare professional to determine which hearing aid style is best suited to your lifestyle and activities.
General Maintenance Tips
Ongoing care and maintenance of your hearing aids will also help keep them safe and functional during the summer months. Regular cleaning and maintenance will help keep your devices in good working condition. Use a soft, dry cloth or specialized hearing aid cleaning tools to remove earwax, debris, and moisture from the hearing aids. Avoid using water or other liquids, as this can cause damage to the device.
Schedule Regular Checkups
Regular checkups with your hearing healthcare professional can help identify issues early and prevent costly repairs or replacements. These checkups may include a hearing evaluation, cleaning, programming adjustments, or any necessary repairs or maintenance. Visit us today for more support.
