The Basics of Hearing Aid Repair

A regular part of owning hearing aids is repair and maintenance, especially in the first year of use. But, proper handling of your new hearing aids can save you the trouble and money.

Why Do Hearing Aids Need Repairs?

Home First Aid

One of the biggest reasons why hearing aids need to be repaired is simply earwax and moisture. This accounts for 3/4 of all hearing aid repairs, and you can prevent it. Earwax builds up on hearing aids, especially smaller models. This is why it is particularly important to clean and take care of your hearing aids properly.

Clean your hearing aids with a warm cloth or tissue. Never let water come into contact with them, because they contain sensitive electronic parts.

Aside from getting dirty, hearing aids most often need to be repaired because of the electronics. Receivers often need to be replaced. Over a long period of time, electronics wear out, and your hearing aids may need new wiring.

The best way to save money on costly repairs is to handle your hearing aids properly, and make sure you are keeping earwax and other dirt out of them.

How Often Do I Need To Get Repairs?

Usually, smaller hearing aids need more repair and maintenance than larger ones. This means that CIC, or completely-in-the-canal hearing aids are the most often in need of repair. It's not because they are fragile and break easily, but because they require more regular maintenance than other types of hearing aids. They are also most sensitive to wax buildup.

All hearing aids need regular repairs or maintenance. With in-the-ear hearing aids, you may have to have something on it repaired every year or 15 months. In-the-canal hearing aids will need to be repaired more frequently, from 9 months to a year. And, completely-in-the-canal hearing aids will probably have to be worked on every 7 to 9 months.

Where Should I Take Them?

It is usually recommended that you take your hearing aids to an audiologist for repair, rather than sending them to the supplier.

How Much Will It Cost?

It varies quite a bit. Older hearing aids cost more to fix than newer ones, because the parts may be hard to find. Also, you will have to pay more if you have to send it to the manufacturer for repairs, rather than having it done in-house.

You should expect to pay at least 0 for circuit changes, although it could be much more.
Warrantees And Guarantees

When buying a hearing aid, make sure that your dealer carries a good warrantee. Warrantees differ by manufacturer, but you should be able to find one that covers repairs for an extended period of time. All warrantees will cover repairs in case of shoddy workmanship or faulty parts.

There should at least be a one-year full coverage warranty. When you first start wearing hearing aids, there will be some routine check-ups and maintenance, and they should be covered by your supplier.

Hearing aid repairs are covered under some insurance plans, but are not usually covered. If you wear hearing aids, you should definitely look for insurance that will pay for your maintenance and repairs.

The most common causes for hearing aid repairs, moisture and earwax buildup, are entirely preventable. Make sure to clean them with each use, and you can save money!

The Basics of Hearing Aid Repair