What if Your Hearing Aid Needs Repair?

Once you start wearing hearing aids, you will wonder how you managed without them. That’s why you take good care of them. However, there might be a time when your hearing aid stops working. Then what do you do? Here’s the basic steps to follow if you think your hearing aid needs repair.

Troubleshoot first

Some problems are easily solved with a simple at-home fix. So, first make sure the battery is fresh and inserted properly, the battery compartment door is closed securely, the unit is turned on and the volume is at the correct level. Check to make sure the receiver tube or opening is not blocked. Check the microphone for debris. If you’ve got feedback then make sure hearing aid is properly inserted and you don’t have wax buildup in your ears.

Call audiologist next

If the troubleshooting measures didn’t revive your failing hearing aid, then it’s time to call the audiologist. If you’ve moved since purchasing your hearing aids don’t worry. Most audiologists sell the major brands and can service almost any brand. If your hearing aids are still under warranty, you still need to call the audiologist first before calling the manufacturer.

Most repairs can be performed in the audiologist’s office. Sometimes all your hearing aid needs is a deep cleaning with tools that only your audiologist uses. If the repair is minor, the audiologist usually has the parts and tools on hand to make the repair. If the repair is major, the hearing aids may need to be returned to the manufacturer.

Manufacturer repairs

The audiologist is the first stop if your hearing aids need repair under warranty. Repairs not covered by warranty may also need to be performed by the manufacturer.

If your hearing aid must be sent to the manufacturer, ask your audiologist about loaner hearing aids. Many audiologists offer a hearing aid loan program. While they might not offer the exact model you wear as a loaner model, they may have something you can use while you wait for the return of your hearing aid.

Most manufacturer repairs take from a week to 10 days for repair and return.

A word about repair labs

You may be tempted to send your hearing aids to one of the many “repair labs” advertised on the internet. These labs claim to be able to repair hearing aids deemed to be beyond repair. They also advertise low prices for repairs.

Some of these labs are reputable businesses. Unfortunately, many are not and prey on seniors and others on a fixed income. If your hearing aids are not functioning properly and are in need of repair, don’t hesitate to contact your audiologist to discuss your options.