Most hearing aids will last 3 to 7 years. This range will depend on how frequently you clean them, where you wear them (for instance, in humid or dusty conditions), and the type of hearing aid you have. Small in-the-ear hearing aids typically need to be replaced sooner than larger hearing aids. Everyday use, exposure to moisture, and earwax buildup can also reduce how long do hearing aids last.
But there are simple things you can do — involving regular cleaning, proper storage, and professional check-ups — to keep your hearing aids running smoothly for years.Let’s review what affects durability, when to replace them, and how to care for yours.
What Determines the Lifespan of Hearing Aids?
The average lifespan of hearing aids is three to seven years, but this varies depending on the type. There are various elements that determine how long yours will run. Here’s what to know about the essence of their durability.
The Type of Hearing Aid
Hearing aids come in several different styles, and the type you wear plays a significant role in their longevity as well. More significant devices like Behind-the-Ear (BTE) are more long-lasting due to their durable designs and replaceable components (like tubing spots or earmolds). There are smaller styles such as ITE (In-the-Ear) or CIC (Completely-in-Canal) hearing aids that are more discreet and sit more profoundly in the ear. Because they’re smaller and less discreet, they’re less easily replaced and more susceptible to moisture or earwax.
Build Quality
Hearing aids that are higher quality and made from more durable materials have a longer lifespan than other models that may be cheaper. High-end devices are constructed to withstand everyday use and repel moisture or dirt. Less expensive options may get you savings up front but could lead to costly repairs or replacements.
Daily Use
When you wear your hearing aids has an impact on their life. Hearing aids used all day, every day simply go through more than those worn some of the time. Most internal components, such as microphones or receivers (speakers), wear out little by little over time from regular use.
Environment
Where you wear your hearing aids can impact their lifespan. Sensitive components can be damaged by humidity, sweat, dust, and earwax. Moisture treatment (which can cause corrosion) can dry up those circuit boards, while earwax buildup can clog microphones or sound outlets. Your devices may require more attention if you live in a humid climate or have an active lifestyle.
Maintenance Habits
Cleaning and storage are the most significant factors: If these are done right, the aids will be fine. Cleaning earwax from it daily, wiping down the device, and storing it overnight in one of the dry cases can protect it from damage. Basic care goes a long way—for example, leaving hearing aids in a bathroom or skipping professional cleanings can shorten their lifespan.
Professional Support
Regular visits to an audiologist for checks can help to identify problems earlier. They may clean those hard-to-reach parts, update software, or fix minor issues before they get worse.
Learn more: How to Clean Hearing Aids
5 Signs That Mean You Need to Replace Hearing Aids
Hearing aids can help improve your hearing, but they don’t last forever. With time, wear and tear, changes in your hearing or advances in technology, you may need an upgrade. Here are five obvious signs that it might be time to replace your current hearing aids:
1. Sound Quality Has Declined
If voices or everyday sounds are muffled, distorted, or muted, your hearing aids may be dying. This can occur if the microphones or speakers are damaged or if earwax has blocked the sound outlets. Although cleaning the device may help for some time, in case the issue persists after the professional maintenance, that means the internal parts may be worn out.
2. Frequent Repairs Are Required
Hearing aids are tough, but they aren’t indestructible. If you constantly return to your audiologist for repairs—cracked case, broken tubing, faulty wiring—it may cost less to replace the device than to keep it. Frequent breakdowns indicate that the hearing aid is wearing out.
3. They Don’t Feel Right Anymore
Our ears reshape over the years, particularly in children and teenagers. If your hearing aids feel loose, cause irritation or slide out of place, they may no longer fit well. If it doesn’t fit well, it can result in feedback (whistling sounds) or poor sound quality. Some aspects – such as earmoulds – can be adjusted , but if you have an older device, you may be unable to upgrade.
4. Battery Life Decreases Quickly
Modern hearing aids use batteries that can last days or even weeks, depending on usage. If your device’s battery dies at an alarming rate — even if you have fresh batteries — it could be a sign of a faulty internal power system. Rechargeable models may also have a more challenging time holding a charge as they get older.
5. Your Hearing Needs Are Different
Hearing loss can change with age, and aging devices may not provide the amount of amplification your hearing ability requires. Furthermore, a more recent model could offer improved features such as direct sound reduction, Bluetooth connections, or adjustable settings for various conditions. You can always upgrade if your current pair does not have these options—upgrading to a modern device, such as OTC CIC hearing aids could have a profound positive impact on your listening ability.
Maintenance Tips to Extend Lifespan
Caring for your hearing aids properly can significantly prolong their life and functionality. Begin cleaning them once a day with a dry, soft cloth to get earwax and dirt off. Refrain from using water or cleaning sprays — moisture accelerates damage to electronics. When not using your hearing aids, store them in a protective case to avoid dropping them or exposing them to pets.Be sure to replace filters and wax guards so sound stays clear.
Whether you use BTE or RIC hearing aids, the care routine is similar. Just note that RIC models may need more attention to the receiver, since it sits directly in the ear canal.
For devices that use disposable batteries, open the battery case at night to minimize moisture buildup—every 6 months, visit your audiologist for professional cleaning and adjustments.If you are looking for low maintenance hearing aids, then RIC hearing aids are a great choice. Their design makes it simple to change receivers or domes, which can prolong their life considerably.
Conclusion
Most hearing aids last 3 to 7 years, but this lifespan is dependent on how you take care of them. Cleaning them regularly, avoiding exposure to moisture and earwax, and storing them properly goes a long way toward keeping them functioning well. With time, wear and tear, or changes in your hearing may need replacement. If your device isn’t precise, comfortable or long-lasting enough to meet the needs a hearing aid is meant to, talk to your audiologist.
More recent versions, such as OTC in-ear hearing aids, come with added features for better performance. By staying on top of maintenance and knowing when it’s time to upgrade, you’ll have a more precise sound and a better hearing experience for many years to come.
FAQs
Q: Can hearing aids last 10 years?
Hearing aids typically last 3–7 years. Some may run for a decade, but their technology soon becomes obsolete, and parts begin to wear out. Usually, upgrading to newer models is a better option for improved performance due to constant repairs and poor sound quality.
Q: Do hearing aids expire?
Hearing aids don’t “expire,” but parts wear out over time. Batteries, speakers and wiring can fail, and earwax or moisture damage can become permanent. Even if they do work, older models may not have the features you need today.
Q: Can humidity shorten lifespan?
Yes. Moisture attacks electronic circuitry and contributes to its corrosion. To limit moisture damage, dry hearing aids overnight using a dehumidifier kit, do not wear them in showers or pools, and store them in a cool, dry place.
