If you're among the many who wear hearing aids and find yourself feeling frustrated with their performance, you are not alone.  Many hearing aid users experience dissatisfaction for a variety of reasons, but the good news is that there are practical solutions to improve your experience.  If you’re experiencing some trouble with your hearing aids, there are a few different fixes you can try at home before handing them over to our professional team to take a look “under the hood” and see what’s going on. 

1. Clean Your Hearing Aids 

One of the most frequent culprits behind poor hearing aid performance or feedback/whistling is the accumulation of dirt or moisture. Over time, wax and debris can build up, affecting the sound quality and functioning of your devices. 

• How to Clean Your Hearing Aids: Gather Your Supplies: You will need a soft, dry cloth, a small brush (often provided by the manufacturer), and possibly a soft cloth for your ears. 

• Gentle Wipe: Start by gently wiping the exterior of your hearing aids with a dry, soft cloth to remove any visible dirt or moisture. 

• Brush the Microphone and Receiver: Use the small brush to carefully clean the microphone ports and receiver openings. Be gentle to avoid damaging these sensitive parts. 

• Check for Earwax Buildup: Inspect the ear domes and tubing for any earwax accumulation. If there is excessive buildup, it may be necessary to replace these parts. Regular cleaning can prevent many common functionality issues, so make it part of your routine to check and clean your hearing aids frequently. 

2. Replace Ear Domes and Wax Guards 

Ear domes and wax guards play a crucial role in the performance of your hearing aids by providing a proper fit and preventing wax from entering the device. Over time, these components can wear out or become blocked, impacting sound quality significantly. 

Steps to Replace Ear Domes and Wax Guards: 

• Purchase Replacement Parts: You can obtain new ear domes and wax guards directly from your hearing aid provider – we can help with that! 

• Remove the Old Parts: Gently remove the ear domes by grasping them carefully and wiggling them free. For wax guards, ensure you follow the specific instructions for your device, as they differ from model to model. 

• Install New Parts: Attach the new ear domes and wax guards. Ensure they are secured properly to create a good seal, which will enhance sound quality. 

• Test the Fit: Insert the hearing aids back into your ears and check for comfort and clarity of sound. Ensure the fittings are not too tight or too loose. Addressing these parts can significantly enhance the effectiveness of your hearing aids and can often resolve some performance issues without needing an expert's assistance. 

3. Perform a Factory Reset 

There’s a reason why turning it off and on again is a popular first fix! If cleaning and replacing ear domes does not resolve your concerns, performing a factory reset on your hearing aids might be the solution you need. A reset can eliminate any minor glitches or software issues that might hinder performance. 

Steps for a Factory Reset: 

• Consult the Manual: Look up your hearing aid model's manual for specific reset instructions, as the procedure can vary by manufacturer. 

• Power Off Your Aids: Begin by completely turning off your hearing aids. For some models, this requires putting them in the charging case to be switched off and charging. 

• Initiate the Reset: Typically, you can perform a reset by pressing and holding the button or switches for a specified period (refer to your manual for exact instructions). 

• Re-Pair Your Devices: Once the reset is complete, you will need to re-pair your hearing aids with any connected devices, such as smartphones or other assistive technology. 

• Test for Improvement: After the reset, wear your hearing aids to see if you notice an improvement in performance. If, after trying these steps, you still experience issues, you’re encouraged to schedule a hearing aid repair appointment. No matter what’s going on with your hearing aids, you can rest assured that our team is ready to help! 

Book a Hearing Aid Repair Today 

Taking the time to carefully maintain your hearing aids can make a significant difference in your day-to-day experience.  By performing regular cleaning, replacing key components, and troubleshooting with factory resets, you can enhance your hearing aids’ performance and enjoy clearer sound.  If problems persist, make use of the loyal support from your friendly neighborhood hearing aid mechanics, where your hearing health matters most. For more information or to book your appointment, request a callback  or give us a call at 510-841-0681.  Don't let frustration hold you back – let's work together toward better hearing health!