FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
 

Zinc air batteries are the most popular power system for hearing aids. These batteries will suit the majority of hearing aids currently available on the market. The four popular sizes of hearing aid batteries are size 10, 13, 312 and 675.

These batteries utilise air outside the battery as a source of power and pack much more power into a cell than the mercury, silver-oxide and alkaline systems. However, the downside is they have a limited life one the air activates the battery. This is why silver-oxide batteries are used for watches.

Battery chemistries are interchangeable provided you use the correct size battery. For example it is possible to use the equivalent size silver-oxide battery in a hearing aid, however, the sound quality and battery life will not be as good as with zinc air batteries.

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Why is there a tab on zinc-air batteries?

Zinc-air batteries use the air outside the battery as a source of power. Manufacturers apply tabs over the air holes to seal out the air and ensure freshness until you are ready to use the battery.

Do not remove the tab until you are ready to use the battery. To activate the battery simply remove the tab before inserting into the battery compartment of your hearing aid or cochlear implant processor.

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What do the colour tabs and codes mean?

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How long will my battery last in my hearing aid?.

Unfortunately, there is no easy answer regarding the life of the battery because there are many variables which affect battery life including:

• the age and type of hearing aid;
• how many hours per day you use your hearing aid;
• the amount and type of environmental noise;
• the program and volume settings;
• the size and brand of the battery;
• the level of humidity;
• how you store the batteries .

If you are not using your hearing aid for a few weeks, we recommend removing the battery from your hearing aid to minimise the risk of damage from battery leaks or corrosion by old batteries.

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How do I know which size battery is for my hearing aid?

Click here for information on which battery to use for your hearing aid or cochlear implant.

If you are still unsure which battery to use, you can post us a used battery or packaging and we will advise you which battery you require. If you choose to do this, please include your name and contact details.

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Where should I store my batteries?

Always store and discard batteries out of reach of children and animals.

Hearing aid and cochlear implant batteries should be stored in a dry place at room temperatures.

Batteries (of any type) should not be stored in the refridgerator or freezer. The high moisture, condensation and extreme temperatures will shorten the life of the batteries. In the case of zinc-air batteries, water particles can form under the peal-off tab - if the oxygen in the water vapour comes into contact with the zinc, the battery could be totally discharged by the time you remove the peal-off tab.

Batteries (of any type) should also not be stored in hot places or in direct sunlight as the heat will shorten the life of the batteries.

If a battery gets wet it will corrode rapidly and possibly leak. If the battery gets wet, remove the battery from your hearing aid or implant processor and discard it thoughtfully as corroded batteries can damage your hearing aid or implant processor. Gently remove any excess moisture from the hearing aid or implant processor before inserting a new dry battery.

Always leave the peel-off-tab on your zinc-air batteries until you are ready to insert them into the battery compartment.

Do not carry batteries in your pocket as the heat from your body will cause the gum on the peel-off-tab to weaken.  The tab will eventually come off and the battery will become 'activated'.  Within 4 to 6 weeks, the battery will have discharged all its power.

Do not connect the positive and negative terminations of batteries with wire. This will cause the battery to short circuit, causing over-heating and they may leak or explode. For this reason, coin-type batteries taken out of their protective packaging should not be carried in your pocket or purse since metal objects such as coins, keys or jewellery can short-circuit the battery. Batteries should be kept in their protective packaging until you are ready to use them.

When your hearing aid is not in use, open the battery door. This will help reduce corrosion. If you use a Global or Zephyr drying kit, it is not necessary to remove the battery from the hearing aid or cochlear implant processer before putting it in the drying kit.

Batteries have a shelf life of two to three years. To avoid deterioration of your batteries we recommend you use the oldest batteries first and order no more than 6 to 9 months supply of batteries.

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