The Basics Of Hearing Aid Repair

By taking care of your hearing aid you will cut back on maintenance and repair. You will also have the result of saving money and no unnecessary inconvenience to yourself. Maintenance and repair does come as part and parcel with the ownership of a hearing aid. The number one cause of problems and need for repair is that of earwax and moisture. This is accountable for around seventy five percent of repairs. This is avoidable if proper cleaning is carried out on the hearing aid. This is especially important with regards to the smaller models. Never let water enter the electronics and regularly clean with a soft cloth or tissue. The electronics do need replacing over time because there will be normal wear and tear. Receivers may have to be replaced or you may need new wiring.

Smaller models often need the most maintenance and especially the CIC (completely in the canal). They are not easy to break but they are the most susceptible to being contaminated by earwax. If you are not careful to clean regularly it can be expensive to replace and repair. How often can you expect to be visiting the repair shop? A CIC needs the most regular maintenance and will probably have to go in every seven to nine months. In the Canal aids – ITC – less frequently, every nine to twelve months. With an In The Ear – ITE – you can be prepared to some kind of replacement every twelve to fifteen months.

Usually, it is better to send aids to the audiologist as opposed to returning them to the supplier. Prices differ as an older model can be more expensive to repair than the more modern types. This is because the parts can be more difficult to find. Sending your hearing aid to the manufacturer can also cost more than if you take it to your audiologist. Circuit changes can cost approximately $100. Prices do vary a lot and you could end up paying much more.

When choosing a new hearing aid, pay close attention to the warrantee. Shop around for a dealer who gives good, extended cover for repairs. The period of time will vary from one manufacturer to another. However, they all cover repairs needed as a result of defective parts or bad workmanship. In any cases the minimum you should expect is twelve months. Initially, there will be routine check ups and general maintenance. Make sure this is covered by the supplier. Most Insurance companies do not cover hearing aids. There are some who do if you pay a higher premium. It is a good idea to contact your broker to find one that will cover maintenance and repair. Remember the golden rule, keep your hearing aid clean and dry. It could save you a lot of money.