It’s summertime in the desert, which means hot temperatures and low chances of rain, so the dirt is dry and dust is flying. If you’re a Santa Fe resident, you’re familiar with these conditions, but as a hearing aid user, it’s important to consider how they might impact your precious devices.
The Risk of Heat
Just like any electronic device, the delicate internal components of your hearing aids can be damaged by extreme heat. Hot temperatures can fry the circuitry and hurt the battery. It can also warp the plastic casings and cause the ear domes to expand, so many people find that their hearing aids feel uncomfortable, don’t seal properly or even fall out more frequently on hot days.
The Risk of Dust
Dust can get into ports and microphones, clogging them and causing major damage. If dust gets inside your devices and builds up, it can wreak havoc on the internal components.
Many modern hearing aids are made to be quite durable, especially against solid objects and fine particles like dust. Your hearing aids will have a durability “grade” in the form of the IP rating.
What You Can Do
Since you wear your hearing aids daily, they are exposed to the same elements you are. Avoid standing in direct sunlight or in dusty areas. Protect them by covering up with a hat, a hearing aid sleeve or standing in the shade. If you must take your hearing aids out, tuck them into a hearing aid case and store it somewhere shady and safe; never leave your devices out in the open, exposed to dust, or in a hot car.
Also, during extreme weather, it’s especially important to keep up with your regular hearing aid cleaning routine. This will remove any dust buildup from the day and give you a chance to examine for any damage.
Signs of Hearing Aid Damage and What to Do About It
This time of year, if you notice hearing aid malfunctions, it may be due to the weather. Keep an eye out for issues such as battery issues (shortened battery life; suddenly powering down), sound issues (distorted sound; inconsistent volume) and physical damage. If you notice any of these, call us at Southwestern Hearing & Balance to schedule a service appointment, and we can take a look at them.