Why Choose Rechargeable Hearing Aids?
So you’ve decided to get hearing aids—Good for you! Hearing aids help us hear the world clearly, keep us connected to others, and help us stay physically and mentally fit.
If you’re new to hearing aids—or just new to rechargeability—you might be wondering whether to choose hearing aids powered by traditional, disposable “zinc-air” batteries or to go rechargeable. There are advantages to each, and which option you choose will have a lot to do with your lifestyle and some of the other factors that go into your decision-making process. Let’s take a look at some of the common questions people ask when they’re considering rechargeable vs. disposable batteries.
Are Rechargeable Batteries the Same as Disposables?
Rechargeables are quite different! Disposable batteries come in four typical sizes that are used based on the size of the hearing aid. The largest batteries provide the most power, while the smaller ones can fit into smaller spaces.
The largest disposable batteries provide the most power for the longest time. The main reason that smaller ones exist is to fit into smaller hearing aids. While the large ones may last over two weeks for some people, the smaller ones may only last a few days.
Rechargeable batteries do not provide power as long as disposable batteries do. While you’ll probably never have to replace the actual battery in the time you own your hearing aids, you will most likely need to charge them every night. For most people, this is not a big deal. With disposable batteries, you should open the battery compartments every night to let them dry out, which is more of an ordeal than simply dropping your rechargeable hearing aids into their charger. For those accustomed to the use of smartphones, rechargeable hearing aids should be an easy fit into your lifestyle.
Can Any Hearing Aid Be Rechargeable?
Not yet. While rechargeability is now a viable option for many hearing aids, the technology still provides less power per charge than a disposable battery does over the course of its life. This means that the smallest hearing aids cannot feasibly be powered by a rechargeable battery, which would only give a few hours of use before needing to be charged.
In general, BTE (behind-the-ear) and RIC (receiver-in-canal) hearing aids can be rechargeable, while ITE (in-the-ear) and smaller body styles are only available for use with disposables. The company Starkey does make an ITE rechargeable hearing aid—the first of its kind.
What Are the Advantages to Rechargeable Hearing Aids?
Good question! There are several advantages to choosing rechargeable batteries that make the choice pretty easy for most people.
Rechargeable batteries mean that the hearing aids do not need to have a battery compartment. Combine this with the fact that most hearing aids are now equipped with Bluetooth technology, and you can remove program buttons and volume controls from the body of the hearing aids, as well. By making a hearing aid with fewer points of entry for moisture and dirt, they can potentially last longer and more frequently survive accidental exposure to water. Phonak even makes a hearing aid now that is waterproof up to about 1 ½ ft., largely thanks to rechargeability and Bluetooth connectivity!
Rechargeable batteries also mean you’ll never have to buy batteries! Keeping extra batteries around can be a bit of a pain. They’re also a health hazard for pets and small children. With rechargeables, just keep your charger handy and you’ll be able to use your hearing aids as long as you can find a power outlet to plug them into for a few hours!
Rechargeables are also great for those who may have trouble manipulating the tiny batteries and compartments that come along with hearing aids. If you have arthritis or vision issues, rechargeables can be a lot easier to maintain.
Finally, they’re better for the environment. The average pair of hearing aids will need over 600 disposable batteries in its lifetime. With rechargeable hearing aids, you can feel good knowing that you’re not putting more trash into the landfills!
If I Choose RIC or BTE Hearing Aids, Is There Any Reason I Should NOT Choose Rechargeable Batteries?
Another good question! It’s all about whether rechargeability makes sense for your lifestyle.
If you spend a lot of time hiking or otherwise away from electricity, maybe rechargeables are not a good idea since you might have trouble finding an outlet every night! For some people, it’s convenient to recharge their hearing aids, and for others, it’s more important to be able to quickly change batteries and restore operation.
Whichever option you end up going with, the most important thing is that you are treating your hearing loss. That will help you maintain your relationships, your health, and your general well-being. Congratulations!
