Micro-electronics like cell phones and hearing devices really don’t like cold temperatures. If they’re exposed to cooler temperatures for too long, they like to protest. Short exposure shouldn’t be a problem but if you’re heading out to walk the dog or a similarly long journey, don’t be alarmed if:

  • Your hearing aid works intermittently (cuts in and out)
  • The sound fades
  • You hear some static
  • Some sounds are distorted
  • The hearing aid stops working

Not to worry! Once you return to a warmer environment the micro-electronics in the hearing aid should return to regular operation. Depending on the outdoor temperature, it could take some time before returning to normal.

If you’re an avid lover of outdoor winter weather, here are a few tips that will help your hearing aid cope with the cold:

DEHUMIDIFIERS/DRI-AID KITS

We associate a dehumidifier for our hearing aids with hot humid summer days, but condensation can be a real problem in winter. If your hearing device shows signs of problems listed above, open the battery door and place it into a Dri-Aid Dehumidifier. This will help prevent corrosion of the battery and damage to the electronics.

EAR GEAR

Ear Gear is like a sweater for your hearing device. It comes in multiple colours and slides over the main housing of the hearing aid to protect against moisture, dust and wind noise.

These items are not expensive and are available at your local hearing clinic. So let’s all embrace the cold, but remember that our hearing devices may need a little extra care.