What’s the Suggested Schedule for Professional Hearing Aid Maintenance?

Audiologist puts modern BTE hearing aid in patients' hand.

Hearing aids are essential for strengthening day-to-day communication by boosting the clarity of sound. For ideal performance, it’s essential to schedule routine maintenance and routine professional cleaning sessions. As an outcome of extended use, a buildup of earwax, moisture, and other particles can occur, causing performance to decline. Knowing when it is time to schedule professional maintenance can help extend the life of your hearing aids and ensure they continue to work at their best.

Why it’s important to have your hearing aids professionally cleaned

Even with regular at-home care, hearing aids gradually collect accumulation that might affect sound quality and performance. Professional maintenance offers numerous key benefits:

  • Extensive Sanitizing– Effectively eradicates stubborn earwax, dust, and moisture that regular cleaning methods often miss.
  • Enhanced efficiency – Gets rid of blockages that might result in muted audio or distortion.
  • Increased Longevity – Helps to avoid early degeneration, thereby reducing the need for repairs or replacements.

Routine professional cleanings keep your hearing aids functioning efficiently, minimizing the risk of unexpected malfunctions.

Signals that your hearing aids require professional upkeep

If you’re not sure whether it’s time for a professional cleaning, look for these common warning signs:

  • Muffled or Distorted Sound Quality: If voices and ambient sounds seem muffled, dull, or distorted, it might be due to wax or debris obstructing the microphone or speaker.
  • Persistent Whistling or Feedback: A high-pitched screeching sound (feedback) can signify wax buildup or an improper fit. A professional cleaning can help eliminate obstructions and fine-tune the fit.
  • Problems with Volume Control: If adjusting the volume doesn’t seem to have the desired effect, internal elements might need maintenance or software reset.
  • Moisture-Related Breakdowns: Too much moisture can damage internal parts, resulting in intermittent sound loss or malfunctioning buttons. A skilled expert can evaluate and resolve issues related to moisture or water damage.
  • Visible Wax or Dirt Build-up: If you see a considerable accumulation of wax or debris on your hearing aids, professional cleaning ensures a more thorough removal than at-home care.
  • What to expect during a professional hearing aid cleaning

    A professional cleaning appointment goes past routine upkeep and ensures your devices operate optimally. During the appointment, specialists will:

    • Utilize precision tools to remove wax, dirt, and moisture without damaging delicate parts.
    • Examine and repair components to verify all elements are functioning properly.
    • Assess software and hardware for any functionality issues affecting sound quality.
    • Swap out any tubing or filters that might be affecting the performance of the device.

    What is the suggested time frame for scheduling professional maintenance?

    The frequency of professional cleanings depends on factors including earwax production, humidity levels, and usage habits. General suggestions include:

    • Every 3 to 6 months for routine maintenance.
    • More frequent cleanings are suggested for people prone to excessive earwax accumulation or those living in humid settings.
    • Managing small problems quickly can help steer clear of expensive repairs down the road.

    Keep your hearing aids in top condition

    To keep your hearing aids functioning optimally and providing crisp, clear audio, it’s crucial to schedule routine exams and maintenance with a hearing care professional.

    If you’re noticing muffled audio, feedback, or performance problems, it might be time to schedule a professional cleaning.

    Schedule your hearing aid cleaning and maintenance now.

The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive personalized advice or treatment, schedule an appointment.

Questions?

    Find out how we can help!

    Call or Text Us