How to Know When It’s Time for a Hearing Aid Tune-Up
Making Everyday Moments Matter
If you’ve been wearing hearing aids for a while, you already know how much they help, from making conversations easier to bringing back the sounds you love. But over time, you might start to notice small changes, like not being able to hear that all-too-lovely sound of laughter as perfectly as you once did. Or maybe you’ve missed a few words from those cozy evening conversations with your partner.
Whether you’ve recently been fitted with new hearing aids or you’ve had your current pair for a few years, regular tune-ups and expert adjustments are key to keeping your hearing aids performing at their best.
Just like any technology we rely on daily, hearing aids benefit from regular fine-tuning, and in some cases, a fresh start with new features that can make everyday moments clearer, easier, and more enjoyable again.
5 Steps to Adjust Your Hearing Aids
- 1.
Check the battery:
Is it inserted properly? Make sure the positive, shiny side of the battery faces up. For rechargeable hearing aids, ensure they have been adequately charged. - 2.
Change the wax filter:
Wax buildup can affect the function of your hearing aids. Change the wax filter or wipe the ear mold to help remove unwanted wax, dirt or debris that may be clogging things up. - 3.
Clean your hearing aids:
Use the brush and wax loop to gently remove any debris that may be clogging up ports and vents. - 4.
Replace silicone domes:
The tips at the end of your hearing aid tubing may need to be replaced every four to six weeks. Some signs to look out for are: discoloration or hardening of the silicone; tears, cracks, or stretching that affect the fit; domes that keep falling out or feel loose in the ear; reduced sound quality, muffled or weak sound; and visible earwax buildup that cannot be cleaned fully. - 5.
Check the tubes:
The tubes of your hearing aids should be replaced every three to six months. If you start to notice a build-up of debris, contact your hearing care professional.
Also, look out for signs of moisture or condensation inside the tube; discoloration, brittleness, or cracking of the tubing; changes in sound clarity or volume; “stiffness” which can affect how the hearing aids sit on the ear; or a loose connection to the hearing aid or dome.
Common Signs Your Hearing Aids Need a Professional Check
Even with the best care, hearing aid adjustments may be needed occasionally. Frequent check-ins every four to six months with your hearing care professional will ensure your hearing aids are functioning the way they should.
Here are four signs it’s might be time for a professional tune-up.
- 1.
Changes in sound quality
New hearing aids often need some initial fine-tuning once you start wearing them. You may need some time to get used to your hearing aids, and small tweaks from your hearing care professional can make a big difference in clarity and comfort.
But even with well-worn devices, changes in sound quality over time are completely normal. You might notice speech becoming less crisp, fluctuating volume, or even moments of intermittent sound or no sound at all.
If your hearing aids aren’t sounding quite right, it could be time for a professional adjustment. A tune-up might include changing tubes and wax guards, cleaning the receiver, or adjusting your sound settings.
To keep your hearing aids performing at their best, a yearly service is recommended. In some cases, this may include a full manufacturer's service, if your hearing aids are still under warranty.
- 2.
Inconsistent performance
You depend on your hearing aids to be reliable, so if performance is inconsistent, your hearing center can explore what’s causing the issue. Try a simple check at home to ensure disposable batteries are fresh, or that rechargeable hearing aids are fully charged.
If your own checks haven’t resolved the issue, reaching out to an expert puts you back in control.
- 3.
Physical discomfort or poor fit
A poor fit can cause you to experience issues with sound, including whistling sounds. If your devices don’t feel comfortable or stay in place, your hearing care professional can check the fit and make adjustments to help you feel your best. - 4.
Visible damage or wear
In the hustle and bustle of our busy lives, accidental damage can sometimes happen. Hearing aids are packed with fine, electronic components, but this wonderful technology can be occasionally need repairs or service. While it might be tempting to try to solve this, don’t try fixing it yourself; leave that to the experts. This helps avoid potential warranty issues and future repairs.
