Audiologist puts modern BTE hearing aid in patients' hand.

Hearing aids perform a crucial role in improving sound clarity and enriching daily communication. For ideal performance, it’s essential to schedule routine upkeep and periodic professional cleaning sessions. With time, earwax, moisture, and debris can accumulate, leading to decreased functionality. Knowing when it is time to schedule professional maintenance can help extend the life of your hearing aids and ensure they continue to operate at their best.

Why it’s important to have your hearing aids professionally cleaned

Even with consistent at-home care, hearing aids progressively collect buildup that may impact sound quality and performance. Professional routine maintenance offers several key benefits:

  • Deep Cleaning– Removes earwax, dust, and moisture that everyday cleaning tools may not effectively remove.
  • Increased Performance– Clears blockages that can cause muffled sound or distortion.
  • Increased Longevity – Helps to avoid early degeneration, thereby minimizing the need for repairs or replacements.

Routine professional cleanings keep your hearing aids functioning effectively, decreasing the risk of unexpected malfunctions.

Signs your hearing aids need professional servicing

If you’re unsure whether it’s time for a professional cleaning, watch for these typical warning signs:

  • Muted or Distorted Sound Quality: If speech and ambient sounds seem muffled, dull, or distorted, it might be due to wax or debris obstructing the microphone or speaker.
  • Relentless Shrieking or Feedback: A high-pitched screeching sound (feedback) can signify wax buildup or a poor fit. A professional cleaning can help eliminate blockages and fine-tune the fit.
  • Problems with Volume Control: If changing the volume doesn’t seem to have the intended effect, internal elements might require repair or software recalibration.
  • High humidity can impact the device’s internal components, causing random audio interruptions or unreliable button control. A professional technician can evaluate and address any moisture-related concerns.
  • If you observe a noticeable increase of wax or dirt on your hearing aids, it is recommended to have them professionally cleaned for a more thorough elimination compared to cleaning them at home.
  • What does a professional hearing aid cleaning look like?

    A professional cleaning appointment goes beyond routine maintenance and ensures your devices function optimally. Here a few things your hearing specialist will accomplish during a cleaning:

    • Implement specialized tools to carefully extract wax, debris, and moisture from sensitive components without doing damage.
    • Confirm the proper performance by inspecting and fixing any broken components.
    • Check software and hardware for any performance issues affecting sound quality.
    • Replace deteriorated filters or tubing that may be limiting device performance.

    What is the recommended time frame for scheduling professional maintenance?

    The need for professional cleanings differs based on factors like how much earwax is generated, the levels of humidity, and how the device is generally used. General recommendations include:

    • General maintenance should be carried out every 3 to 6 months.
    • More frequent cleanings are advised for individuals prone to excessive earwax accumulation or those living in humid settings.
    • Managing small problems quickly can help steer clear of expensive repairs down the road.

    Maintain your hearing aids for optimal performance

    To keep your hearing aids working efficiently and providing crisp, clear audio, it’s crucial to schedule routine exams and maintenance with a hearing care professional.

    If distorted sound, echoing, or technical problems are disrupting your experience, it’s likely that a comprehensive, expert cleaning is in order.

    Schedule your hearing aid cleaning and maintenance now.

The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive personalized advice or treatment, schedule an appointment.