Everything you need to know about maximizing battery life, mastering Bluetooth connectivity, and keeping your hearing aids performing at their best β from licensed audiologists serving all 50 states.
Find your battery size and understand what to expect from battery life based on daily usage.
| Battery Size | Color Code | Typical Lifespan | Hearing Aid Types | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Size 10 | π‘ Yellow | 3β5 days | Micro CIC, IIC | Mild to moderate hearing loss |
| Size 312 | π€ Brown | 5β7 days | Mini BTE, RIC, CIC | Mild to moderately severe loss |
| Size 13 | π Orange | 7β10 days | Standard BTE, ITE | Moderate to severe loss; Bluetooth users |
| Size 675 | π΅ Blue | 9β20 days | Large BTE, Power BTE | Severe to profound loss |
| Rechargeable Li-Ion | β‘ N/A | 16β24 hrs/charge | Modern RIC, BTE | Active users, travelers, streamers |
Simple habits that can significantly increase how long your hearing aid batteries last.
When not wearing your hearing aids, open the battery door to break the circuit and prevent drain. This simple habit can add days to your battery life.
After removing the tab from a zinc-air battery, wait 3β5 minutes before inserting it. This allows oxygen to fully activate the battery for maximum output.
Keep batteries at 68Β°F (20Β°C). Avoid refrigerators β condensation damages batteries. Keep away from metal objects like coins or keys that can cause short circuits.
Streaming audio via Bluetooth can increase battery drain by 30β50%. Limit streaming when battery is low or use a larger battery size (Size 13 or 675) for heavy streaming use.
Moisture is the enemy of hearing aid batteries. Store your hearing aids in a dehumidifier case overnight to remove moisture and extend both battery and device lifespan.
Dirty battery contacts reduce efficiency. Use a soft, dry cloth to gently clean the battery contacts and compartment. Never use water or cleaning solutions on battery contacts.
Step-by-step guidance for connecting your hearing aids to smartphones, TVs, and other devices.
Go to Settings β Accessibility β Hearing Devices. Turn your MFi-certified hearing aids off and back on to enter pairing mode. Tap your hearing aid name when it appears and select "Pair" on both pop-up prompts.
MFi CertifiedFor ASHA-compatible aids, go to Settings β Accessibility β Hearing Aid Compatibility. For standard Bluetooth, go to Settings β Bluetooth, turn hearing aids on in pairing mode, and select them from the device list.
ASHA ProtocolMost hearing aids require a TV streaming accessory (e.g., Signia StreamLine TV) that plugs into your television's audio output and transmits audio wirelessly to your hearing aids. No phone needed.
Accessory RequiredTry these fixes: 1) Turn Bluetooth off/on on your phone. 2) Open/close the hearing aid battery door or place them in the charger briefly. 3) Delete the device from Bluetooth settings and re-pair. 4) Restart both devices.
TroubleshootingMFi and ASHA protocols provide low-latency streaming (under 50ms). If you notice audio delay when watching video, ensure your hearing aids are certified for your device type. Standard Bluetooth can have 150β200ms delay.
PerformanceStay within 30 feet of your connected device for stable streaming. Walls, microwaves, and other wireless devices can cause interference. If signal drops, move closer to your device or disable nearby Bluetooth devices.
Range TipsA consistent maintenance routine protects your investment and ensures optimal sound quality every day.
Wipe hearing aids with a soft, dry cloth before inserting. Check for wax buildup on speaker/receiver. Insert fresh batteries if needed and ensure battery door clicks fully closed.
Remove hearing aids and wipe down with a dry cloth. Open battery door or place in charger. Use a wax pick/loop to gently remove any visible ear wax from the speaker port. Store in a dehumidifier case.
Use a hearing aid cleaning kit (brush, pick, wax loop). Clean all ports, microphone openings, and tubing. Replace wax filters/guards if blocked. Inspect tubing for cracks or discoloration.
Never use water, alcohol, or cleaning sprays directly on hearing aids. Remove them before showering, swimming, or applying hairspray/sunscreen. Avoid dropping on hard surfaces and keep away from pets.
Answers to the most common battery and Bluetooth questions from our patients.
Our licensed audiologists can troubleshoot your hearing aids remotely via secure video call β available in all 50 states, same-week appointments available.