Maintaining what counts – Daily equipment care
Each part of the amplification system needs to be cared for and properly maintained. Hearing aid care and maintenance should be discussed during the fitting appointment. Usually the audiologist will provide a hearing aid care kit for your child along with the hearing aids.These kits consist of accessories which can extend a hearing aid’s life expectancy and provide for long-term trouble-free functioning.
Earmolds
During the first two years babies will need many new earmolds to keep up with their rapid growth. Later, a three or four year-old might keep the same earmolds for as long as one year. Earmolds may become loose over time and cause feedback, so it is important to check regularly that the earmold has a snug fit and to have new earmolds made, if they are loose.
Lubricants
These products are specially made for use with hearing instruments and are a great help when earmolds are either loose or too tight. Please note that petroleum jelly is not a suitable substitute since it has a tendency to grow bacteria
Batteries
Button batteries power the hearing instruments. The estimated battery life for a button battery varies with each device and its power needs. Estimated battery life is available from your audiologist for each hearing instrument but the use of a battery tester will enable you to check that the batteries are working every day. Despite your best efforts, batteries may lose their charge during the course of the day. Remember to keep extra batteries with you when you are away from home.
All batteries should be stored in a dry place and away from children. FM transmitters and receivers may use rechargeable batteries. The manufacturer has recommendations for charging each device. Follow local environmental guidelines for the safe, responsible disposal of batteries
Hearing instruments and FM devices
FM devices and hearinginstruments are cared for in the same manner as other sensitive electronicdevices. They should not be exposed to extreme temperatures or extreme moistureor humidity. In humid climates, or when worn by babies who perspire easily, theuse of a hearing instrument drying unit can be very beneficial. These dryingunits are either passive storage compartments or electrical driers specificallydesigned for hearing instruments. For best results the drying unit should beused every day. Regardless of the type of drying unit used, the hearinginstrument batteries should be removed during the drying process. If thehearing instrument goes for an unexpected swim, the best course of action is toremove the battery and place it in the drying unit immediately. In some cases,it may work again when dry.
Phonak offers a special cleaning and care kitspecially designed for the parents and caregivers of young children who arewearing hearing instruments. The Junior care Kit makes sure that nothing isforgotten – and even incorporates a practical user guide.
In rare instances, ifthe hearing instruments are exposed to exceptionally dusty conditions, they mayhave to be sent in for reconditioning.
Warranties often are available forhearing instruments and FM systems. The length of the warranty varies with eachmake and model of hearing instrument. Check with your audiologist to find out more.