What to Do if Your Hearing Aid Breaks

Hearing aids are designed to be durable, reliable, and long-lasting, but like any electronic device, they may occasionally stop working or show signs of damage.Since hearing aids play such a vital role in helping you stay connected with family, friends, and colleagues, even a small issue can feel frustrating. The good news is that many common problems can be solved with simple checks at home, while others may require the expertise of an audiologist.
At Aanvii Hearing, we believe that knowing what steps to
take when your hearing aid breaks can save you time and help you get back to
hearing clearly as quickly as possible.
Step 1: Make Sure It’s Turned On
This might sound too simple, but sometimes the solution is
right in front of us. If your hearing aid suddenly stops working, check first
if it is switched on. New users, especially, may forget this step or
accidentally turn the device off while handling it. A quick check of the power
button or switch should always be your starting point.
Step 2: Check the Battery or Charger
Hearing aids are powered either by traditional disposable
batteries or rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.
If your device is battery-operated:
·
Make sure the battery is not dead or corroded.
·
Replace it with a new one and check again.
·
Always handle batteries with clean, dry hands.
If your hearing aid is rechargeable:
·
Place your device in the charging case every
night to ensure proper charging.
·
Gently clean the charging contacts with a soft,
dry cloth to remove dust or debris.
·
Confirm the charger is plugged in correctly.
Since power issues are among the most common causes of
hearing aid malfunctions, resolving this step often brings your device back to
life immediately.
Also Read: Using Hearing Aids in Different Environmental Settings
Step 3: Check the Volume and Settings
Sometimes the issue isn’t with the device itself but with
its settings. Accidentally lowering the volume or switching to a different
program can make it seem like your hearing aid has stopped working.
·
Adjust the volume to a comfortable level.
·
If your device is app-enabled, check the
settings on your smartphone.
·
Try switching between programs or restarting the
device.
· If your hearing aid still feels too quiet even after adjusting, it may need professional fine-tuning.
Step 4: Look for Blockages
·
Earwax, dust, or moisture can block the tiny
openings in your hearing aid, preventing sound from coming through clearly.
This is especially common with in-the-ear styles.
·
Remove your hearing aid and check the microphone
and receiver for visible blockages.
·
Use the cleaning brush or wax removal tool that
came with your device.
·
Replace wax guards or filters if they are
clogged.
·
Regular cleaning not only helps restore sound
but also prevents future issues.
Step 5: Inspect for Physical Damage
If your hearing aid has been dropped, stepped on, or exposed
to water, it may have sustained damage. Look for:
·
Cracks in the casing
·
Loose or missing parts
·
Damaged or twisted tubing in behind-the-ear
(BTE) models
Even small cracks or bent parts can affect performance. In
such cases, don’t attempt to fix the damage yourself. Instead, contact your
audiologist immediately.
Step 6: Contact Your Hearing Care Professional
If you’ve tried the above troubleshooting steps and your
hearing aid is still not working, it’s time to reach out for professional
support. At Aanvii Hearing, our trained audiologists can:
·
Perform on-the-spot repairs, such as replacing
tubing or cleaning internal parts.
·
Adjust your device’s programming for better
performance.
·
Arrange manufacturer repairs for more complex
issues.
The key is to avoid repairs beyond basic cleaning or battery
replacement, as this could cause further damage. Professionals have the tools
and expertise to handle repairs safely.
Also Read: Encouraging Children to Wear Hearing Aids with Confidence
Preventing Future Breakdowns
While not every issue can be avoided, a few good habits can
reduce the chances of your hearing aid breaking:
·
Clean your devices daily with the tools
provided.
·
Store them in a dry box or dehumidifier
overnight.
·
Keep them away from moisture, extreme heat, or
direct sunlight.
·
Handle them carefully, especially when inserting
or removing.
·
Schedule regular check-ups with your audiologist
for professional cleaning and adjustments.
When your hearing aid breaks, it doesn’t always mean it
needs to be replaced. Often, simple troubleshooting—like checking the power,
adjusting settings, or cleaning blockages can get it working again. For more
serious issues, seeking help from a professional ensures the device is restored
quickly and safely.
Book a Free Hearing Test & Trial at Aanvii Hearing
From the first fit to every follow-up, Aanvii Hearing’s
audiologists are here to ensure your hearing aids always feel natural and
perform flawlessly. Book a free hearing test and trial today by calling 96 5839 5839 or visiting