There aren’t many things more annoying than inserting your hearing aid and discovering it has suddenly stopped working. You are not alone if you wonder, “why is my rechargeable hearing aid not working?” or “why is my left hearing aid not working?” The good news is that most problems are minor and can be resolved with some care. By studying common causes and easy treatments, you can rapidly restore sound and avoid more issues.
Common Reasons Hearing Aids Stop Working
- Power Loss – One of the main reasons for hearing aid problems is batteries. A rechargeable device wasn’t fully charged, or a throwaway battery unexpectedly ran out of power. The gadget will not turn on if the power supply isn’t working.
- Blockages from Earwax: Earwax accumulation is another common offender. Even a tiny bit of wax can block the tiny microphone or receiver, reducing sound or shutting it off entirely. Moreover, wax can build up inside domes or tubes, decreasing clarity.
- Moisture: Hearing aids are very sensitive to dampness. Water droplets may collect inside the device from sweat, rain, or humid conditions, causing the system to momentarily short out or produce a distorted sound.
- Loose or Damaged Components: Receivers may decline, microphones may sustain damage, and tubing may loosen or break with time. Even minor damage, particularly in older devices, might impact performance.
- Incorrect Settings or Device Not Turned On: Sometimes, the issue is far easier to solve than it first appears. For example, turning down the level, altering the program, or forgetting to turn the hearing aid back on can create the appearance of failure.
- Internal Malfunctions: If none of the above applies, the device might have an internal issue. This usually requires the expert care of a hearing aid specialist or audiologist in Waco, TX.
Step-by-Step Home Troubleshooting
- Check the Battery or Charging Unit: Ensure your rechargeable device is correctly inserted in its charging station, or swap out the disposable batteries for a new pair. Many people who inquire why their left hearing aid isn’t functioning discover it’s just out of power.
- Inspect for Earwax and Debris: After removing the earpiece, examine it for dirt or wax. Gently clean it with a dry cloth, brush, or specialized tool. If necessary, replace the wax filter.
- Clean the Microphone and Receiver: Dust, debris, and oil can gather in the little holes. Gently wipe them to prevent particles from being pushed further into the gadget.
- Reset the Volume and Program Settings: Make sure the volume is not set too low. After resetting the gadget to its default settings, recheck the sound.
- Dry Out the Device: If your hearing aid might be wet, put it in a dry box or dehumidifier kit for the night. This frequently restores sound quality.
- Reinsert and Check Fit: It may seem like a poorly fitted item isn’t functioning. Ensure it is correctly placed in your ear canal before carefully re-inserting it.
- Troubleshoot Rechargeable Models: If you’re still wondering why your rechargeable hearing aid is not working, try re-pairing it with its charger or another linked device. Resetting might also fix issues with the connection or Bluetooth.
- Swap Ears for Testing: Switch between your ears if you wear two hearing aids. By doing this, you can determine if the issue is with the device or if your hearing has changed.
Quick Fix or Professional Help?
While some problems may be handled at home, others need professional assistance. You have probably taken care of the issue yourself if changing a battery, cleaning the wax, or adjusting the settings fixes it. But it’s time to consult a specialist if the hearing aid doesn’t work, shows physical deterioration, or keeps buzzing or whistling. A qualified hearing aid specialist should also assess any sudden changes in hearing or discomfort.
Tips to Prevent Future Hearing Aid Issues
- Use a gentle brush or cloth to clean your gadgets every day.
- Keep them overnight in a dry box.
- Wax filters should be changed frequently.
- Steer clear of water, lotions, and hairspray.
- Make an appointment for routine examinations with a hearing specialist in Waco, TX.
Hear Better, Live Better with Roger Clark Hearing Centers
Even the best hearing aids require maintenance, despite their exceptional capabilities. Local professionals can assist you if you need a professional evaluation or have maintenance questions, like “why is my left hearing aid not working?” As a reputable supplier of hearing aids in Waco, TX, Roger Clark Hearing Centers stands out for fusing technical know-how with excellent customer service.
Our experienced hearing aid specialist in Waco, TX can help you hear better, fix your tools, and improve your hearing. Don’t hesitate to make an appointment to resume living life to the fullest!
FAQs
If my hearing aids become wet, can I use a hair dryer?
You should never dry your hearing aids in a microwave, cookstove, or with a hair dryer. The heat could irreparably harm the fragile electronics. Instead, leave the devices in a dehumidifier or hearing aid dryer overnight to eliminate moisture safely.
Do software upgrades for hearing aids need to be made?
Many contemporary digital and rechargeable hearing aids can be updated, particularly if they pair with a smartphone app via Bluetooth. These updates may enhance performance, battery life, or accessory compatibility. Your Waco, Texas hearing aid specialist can check and apply updates during routine visits.
What causes the whistling sound coming from my hearing aid?
Feedback is a high-pitched whistle frequently occurring when earwax obstructs the canal or the device is not correctly situated in the ear. If modifying the fit doesn’t help, a specialist might need to repair worn parts or fine-tune the programming.
What is the average lifespan of hearing aids?
With proper maintenance, most hearing aids last five to seven years. Longevity is strongly affected by maintenance, surroundings, and use habits. Routine cleaning and maintenance can increase lifespan; technological advancements may urge an earlier upgrade for improved features.
How do AirPods work as hearing aids?
Apple’s Live Listen feature lets AirPods pick up your iPhone’s sound and send it straight to your ears. However, AirPods are not medical devices and cannot replace professional-grade hearing aids, even though they are helpful for mild amplification.
