Hearing Aid Batteries

While hearing aid technology has changed dramatically in recent years, the technology to power hearing aids hasn’t changed very much. There are now hearing aids that rely on rechargeable batteries, but most devices still utilize traditional zinc-air disposable batteries. During your hearing aid fitting appointment, the audiologist at Siouxland Hearing Healthcare will go over how to change or recharge the batteries for your hearing aids. And know you can always rely on us to have a fresh supply of batteries when you need them.

Disposable batteries

Disposable zinc-air batteries are still the gold standard for most hearing aids. Even with the demands of Bluetooth streaming and other new technology, these batteries provide the power you need to keep your devices operating. Because these batteries depend on oxygen from the air to begin the chemical reaction that creates their power, it’s important to activate the battery before insertion. Simply remove the tab and wait two to three minutes before inserting the battery.

Purchasing replacement batteries

Buying batteries for hearing aids is easy. The manufacturers have standardized the sizes and assigned each of the four sizes a number and a color code. Shopping for batteries is as easy as remembering the right color or number. Hearing aid battery sizes are:

  • Orange (#13) –These batteries last about 240 hours and power behind-the-ear (BTE) and in-the-ear (ITE) devices.
  • Brown (#312) – This is the smallest battery and lasts about 175 hours. It is used to power in-the-canal (ITC) and completely-in-canal (CIC) devices.
  • Yellow (#10) – This battery is also used by ITC and CIC devices and provides about 80 hours of use.
  • Blue (#675) – The largest battery has the longest life and is used in the largest hearing aids. Blue batteries last approximately 300 hours and are used in BTE hearing aids.

Rechargeable batteries

Rechargeable batteries are becoming more popular as they now last longer and provide freedom from the hassle of changing batteries. This is an excellent choice for those whose vision or dexterity limits their ability to manipulate small devices.

The battery is installed as part of the hearing aid, and to recharge, you simply place the hearing aid in the docking/recharging station provided with the hearing aid.