What are the Most Common Hearing Aid Repairs

If you wear a hearing aid every day, you will know that it is a delicate device that relies on intricate technology. Hearing aids are phenomenal devices that achieve so much with their small size and this means that when they malfunction, they need a specialist attention to get back to full working condition.

In this post, we will discuss common hearing aid repairs that are needed and how to get your hearing aid repaired if it isn’t working correctly.

Hearing aid repairs range from being simple quick fixes, to more complicated repair processes that require more specialist attention. In this section we will show you the three most common types of hearing aids, common issues that people experience with them and how to have them repaired.

In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids

ITE hearing aids are one of the most popular types of hearing aids in the world, simply because they combine subtlety with practicality. These hearing aids sit in the outer bowl and are usually powered by batteries.

If your ITE hearing aid stops working completely, or experiences any kind of problem, you might be able to fix the problem at home, but you may have to take it to your hearing instrument specialist for specialist repair.

Firstly, check the ITE hearing aid for signs of damage. Is it cracked or visibly broken? If not, it might be that the internal wiring of the ITE hearing aid is damaged. Check the batteries, and if those aren’t the problem, you should see your audiologist for a full assessment.

Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids

Behind the ear (BTE) hearing aids are the traditional hearing aids that are best for moderate-to-severe hearing loss.

BTE hearing aids contain delicate tubing that can become damaged over time, either through mistreatment or simply from age. The tubing within a BTE hearing aid provides the amplification needed for the person to hear; in short, it is crucial that it is working properly.

If the tubing in your BTE hearing aid becomes damaged, your hearing instrument specialist will usually be able to repair it quickly. However, if it is truly worn, it might be better to replace the hearing aid altogether rather than attempt a repair.

In-the-canal (ITC) hearing aids

While similar to the ITE hearing aid, an ITC hearing aid is smaller and more compact, offering a subtler look. Like the other hearing aids in this list, ITC hearing aids are battery powered and are easy to fix if the battery has simply run out.

However, in the event that an ITC hearing aid becomes damaged, it will need to be taken to your specialist for further examination. ITC hearing aids are more susceptible to damage due to their exposure to earwax and other discharge. Make sure you clean them regularly to avoid damage!

Having your hearing aid repaired by your hearing instrument specialist should be a quick process, no matter which type you use. Regularly cleaning your hearing aid will help it last longer without the need for repairs.