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Summer is such an exciting time of the year. More sun means being able to be outside, enjoying warm weather, and participating in your favorite outdoor activities. But it is important to be aware of how warmer weather and the summertime can impact your hearing aids. Summer can present specific challenges for hearing aid wearers. But by practicing effective maintenance tips, you can best navigate and enjoy this season while also keeping your device in the best shape.
Avoid Heat Exposure
Summer months mean warmer temperatures and possibly even high heat depending on where you live. It is important to keep your hearing aids away from extreme heat which can damage your device in several ways. Heat can melt the hearing aid’s plastic casing as well as damage batteries causing short-circuiting or battery failure. So be sure to not leave your hearing aid device or case under direct sunlight, in your car, or anywhere else with high heat exposure. If you go to the beach, for example, do not leave your hearing aid on a towel under sunlight. Your hearing aid should be placed in the shade or another cool, dry area.
Protect Device From Water Damage
Moisture exposure is a common way hearing aids can be irreparably damaged. Moisture can damage the electrical components of your hearing aid which causes short-circuiting issues, preventing your device from working optimally. The risk of water damage is especially high during the summer when people tend to engage in water activities as well as sweat due to hotter temperatures.
There are a few useful ways you can protect your hearing aids from moisture accumulation. A few tips include:
- Remove your hearing aids before swimming. Avoid being close enough to a pool where water can splash on you. Store your hearing aids in a waterproof case when you are near water especially.
- After engaging in activities that cause you to perspire (exercise, gardening, biking, etc.), be sure to remove your hearing aids and clean them throughout to remove moisture.
- Use a dehumidifier that completely dries out your hearing aid overnight.
- Avoid storing your hearing aid in the bathroom which tends to be more humid.
Prevent Clogging
In addition to moisture accumulation, other substances or debris that buildup on your device can also cause damage. This is especially important to be mindful of during the summer when you may be spending a lot more time outside and are exposed to various substances. This includes sand, pollen, sunscreen, etc. These substances can accumulate in your ears and on your device, causing hearing aid components to become clogged. This includes the microphone, tubing, receiver, etc. Be sure to not touch your hearing aids after touching sand, lotion, or other substances. Avoid applying any type of spray (hair spray, sunscreen, etc.) while wearing your hearing aids.
It is important to clean your hearing aids daily using a soft, dry cloth. This should include inspecting your device and wiping it down effectively. Also, use a hearing aid brush or pick to get into the harder areas so that you can clean your hearing aid thoroughly.
Additional Tips to Protect Your Hearing Aids
In addition to taking measures to protect your hearing aids from water and heat exposure, a few more tips you can use this summer include:
- Have hearing aids professionally serviced? Check in with your hearing healthcare provider to learn about the maintenance services they provide. Getting your hearing aid professionally services is a great way to ensure your device stays in great shape. This allows a hearing aid specialist to evaluate your device and check for any potential issues, address anything that needs to be fixed, and thoroughly clean your hearing aid. Additionally, they can run a test to ensure that your hearing aid is performing optimally and meeting your hearing needs.
- Invest in accessories: get a waterproof case which can be helpful all year but especially during the summer when you engage in water activities. Also, invest in a dehumidifier which is an effective and easy way to keep your hearing aids dry.
These tips support you in fully enjoying the summer and also protecting your hearing aids. Contact us to learn more about the accessories that can benefit you and your hearing aids during the summer.