Troubleshooting Your Hearing Aid
Moisture and dust can affect the sound quality of your hearing aids. To prevent a build-up of debris, it is best to clean your hearing aids daily. This can be done by using a small brush (like a child-sized toothbrush) to brush the hearing aid. If you develop excessive ear wax, see your physician or ear doctor for regular ear cleanings.
If your hearing aids are not performing properly, try one of the following troubleshooting techniques:
If you have custom, in-the-ear hearing aids:
Problem:
No sound from the hearing aid or hearing aid sounds weak
Solutions:
- Replace the battery
- Replace the wax trap
Problem:
You hear feedback or whistling
Solutions:
- Check to see that the hearing device is properly inserted
- Call your audiologist, as you might have a build-up of ear wax or there might be a crack in the case
If you have receiver-in-the-ear hearing aids:
Problem:
No sound from the hearing aid or hearing aid sounds weak
Solutions:
- Replace the battery
- Replace the dome
- Replace the wax trap
Problem:
You hear feedback or whistling
Solutions:
- Check to see that the hearing device is properly inserted
- Call your audiologist, as you might have a build-up of ear wax
If you have a behind-the-ear hearing aid with a clear slim tube:
Problem:
No sound from the hearing aid or hearing aid sounds weak
Solutions:
- Replace the battery
- Remove the slim tube from the hearing aid and run the cleaning wire through the tube
- Replace the dome
Problem:
You hear feedback or whistling
Solutions:
- Make sure the device is inserted properly
- Check to see if there is a crack in the tubing
- Call your audiologist, as you might have a build-up of ear wax
If you have a behind-the-ear hearing instrument with a tube connected to a custom earmold:
Problem:
No sound from the hearing aid or hearing aid sounds weak
Solutions:
- Replace the battery
- Use a pick to be sure the holes at the end of the earmold (the part that enters your ear) are clear of debris
- Remove the top of the tubing from the hearing aid and use an earmold blower to puff air down the tubing and out of the earmold. This will remove any moisture bubbles blocking the sound.
Problem:
You hear feedback or whistling
Solutions:
- Make sure the hearing aid is inserted properly
- Check to see if there is a crack in the tubing
- Call your audiologist, as you may have a build-up of ear wax
For additional information, refer to your hearing aid product manual. Contact your audiologist if you are wondering which type of hearing aid you have. If you are experiencing any concerns other than those listed, or if you continue to have difficulties, please contact your audiologist.
Hearing Aids
Hearing and Balance
