How cold weather can affect your hearing aids

At this time of year we see some pretty extreme changes in temperature. These temperature changes can impact the function of your hearing aids. It’s not necessarily the cold that is the problem. It is the changes in temperature and moisture.

Rapid temperature change can cause condensation. For example, if you have been walking outside in minus 15 degree weather and come home to a house where the temperature is plus 20 inside, that extreme temperature change can produce condensation. Moisture can then get into your hearing aids and cause damage. Moisture from rain and snow can also damage your hearing aids.

Signs of moisture damage include:

• Your hearing aids seem to fade in and out.

• Your hearing aids sound distorted or you hear static.

• Your hearing aids stop working altogether and then come back on.

• When there is a loud noise your hearing aids momentarily stop working.

Fortunately, there are some precautions you can take to protect your hearing aids during the winter:

• Make sure your ears are covered up when you’re out in the rain or snow.

• Put your hearing aids in a dri-aid kit each night to remove moisture. Make sure to take the batteries out before you put them in the kit.

• If your hearing aids do get wet, remove the batteries immediately and store the aids in a dry place.

Follow these steps to ensure you get the most out of your hearing aids.