The UK’s winter weather – usually cold and wet – can play havoc with hearing aids, especially their delicate electronics.

This can lead to loss of performance and, in extreme cases, permanent damage. But this can be easily avoided by taking a few precautions before going out.

Don’t get your hearing aids wet

Protect your ears and hearing aids with a hat every time you go out in winter – especially if it is snowing or raining.

Loss of performance happens when hearing aids get cold when you go outside and then warm up when you go back indoors. This change of temperature causes condensation in the hearing aid and this moisture can damage it.

Always carry spare batteries

You should always protect your hearing aids if it is raining. Moisture can ruin their microphone and receiver, as well as clogging the earmould tubing and corroding the parts.

If hearing aid batteries get too cold they will not last as long as normal and can sometimes stop working. It’s a good idea to carry spare batteries with you just in case this happens.

Use a dehumidifier

Put the spares in an inside pocket so they will keep warm. Make sure there are no coins or other metal objects near them if you are carrying them loose and not in their packet.

Don’t leave your hearing aids where they will get very cold because condensation will form when they start to warm up.

If your hearing aids do get wet or if there is a problem with moisture build-up, then make sure you take out the batteries and dry your hearing aids properly. Using a dehumidifier can really help here.

Visit our webshop

Following these simple precautions during the winter will mean your hearing aids will carry on working well.

Our webshop Hearbase Direct stocks a range of items which help in the care and maintenance of hearing aids. Included is a nifty electronic disinfection and drying system in a small and neat case. Postage is free on all orders and prices include VAT.

Take a look here.

Drying products