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Are hearing aids waterproof?
In this article, we will explore whether truly waterproof hearing aids exist, examine the differences between waterproof and water-resistant hearing aids, and finally, provide guidance on what to do when hearing aids get completely soaked.
We are constantly exposed to water in our daily lives, from that morning glass of water to the shower we take every day, spilled milk from our pets, or even getting drenched despite using an umbrella during heavy rain.
These elements pose a risk in our lives, especially for those using hearing aids or medical devices.
Therefore, many people are eager to find hearing aids that are truly waterproof.
Is it safe to wear hearing aids in the water?
Most modern hearing aids have some degree of water resistance thanks to a protective Nano-coating on the shell of the devices that repels water.
You can tell how water-resistant a hearing aid is based on its IP rating; the higher the number, the more water-resistant it is.
Note that water-resistant hearing aids can repel water if they are splashed or exposed to sweat or rain, but they cannot be submerged.
In simple terms, water-resistant hearing aids are not waterproof hearing aids.
Continuing on, it's essential to emphasize that even though most modern hearing aids offer a level of water resistance, there are limits to their protection.
They can effectively repel water when exposed to splashes, sweat, or light rain. However, it's crucial to understand that they cannot withstand submersion in water.
So, it's best to remove your hearing aids before activities like swimming or taking a shower to prevent any potential damage.
Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines for proper care and maintenance to ensure your hearing aids continue to perform at their best.
Water-Resistant Vs. Waterproof
The main difference between "waterproof" and "water-resistant" lies in their level of protection against water:
- Waterproof: An item that is described as waterproof is completely impervious to water. It can be submerged in water for an extended period without any damage or water penetration.
- Water-Resistant: Water-resistant items can withstand exposure to water to some degree but are not completely impervious. They are designed to repel water to a certain extent or protect against light splashes, rain, or moisture. However, they may not withstand full submersion or prolonged exposure to water without potential damage.
In the context of hearing aids, "water-resistant" hearing aids can handle everyday situations like sweat, rain, or minor splashes, but they are not designed to be submerged in water.
On the other hand, "waterproof" hearing aids would offer a higher level of protection, allowing for submersion without damage. However, truly waterproof hearing aids are relatively rare, and most on the market are water-resistant to varying degrees.
Water resistant Hearing aids are primarily indicated by their IP rating, which shows how effectively they can block water.
However, to better highlight the resistance to water rather than using the IP rating, the IPX rating is also employed to indicate the water resistance of hearing aids.
What is an IPX Rating?
IPX rating is a specialized form of the Ingress Protection (IP) rating that indicates the level of protection against water.
The IPX rating specifically focuses on water resistance and does not consider protection against solid particles. IPX ratings are commonly found in electronic devices and other products like speakers, headphones, smartphones, and tablets.
The IPX rating is displayed in a format where "IP" is followed by "X." The "X" signifies the absence of protection against solid particles. The subsequent digit represents the level of protection against water, typically ranging from 0 to 9, with higher numbers indicating greater resistance to water.
For instance, IPX4 indicates protection against water splashes and rain, while IPX7 signifies the ability to withstand temporary immersion in freshwater. IPX ratings are primarily used to assess the durability of devices and accessories that may be exposed to water during active pursuits or activities.
OLIVE MAX : https://bit.ly/3Lkrgqj
The Olive Max product is a hearing aid with an IPX7 rating, making it highly resilient to exposure to water in everyday life.
An IPX7 rating indicates that a device is capable of being submerged in freshwater (clean water) for a short duration, typically up to 30 minutes, at a depth of approximately 1 meter (around 3.3 feet).
This means the device should continue to operate and remain undamaged when briefly immersed in water.
However, it's important to note that the IPX7 rating does not recommend prolonged underwater use or submerging the device for an extended period.455B43
It is designed to provide protection in scenarios involving light splashes, exposure to rain, or brief submersion.
So, while the IPX rating doesn't necessarily signify waterproof hearing aids, it does indicate that they can withstand everyday splashes to some extent.
What to do if your hearing aids get wet?
If your hearing aids aren't waterproof, you'd be concerned if you accidentally dropped them in water.
However, if your water-resistant hearing aids have been exposed to a bit of splashing, there's no need to worry too much.
If your hearing aids get completely wet, it's essential to take immediate action to minimize potential damage.
Here's what you should do:
- Turn Them Off: If your hearing aids are still on, turn them off as quickly as possible. This can help prevent electrical damage.
- Remove the Batteries: If your hearing aids have removable batteries, take them out. This will prevent electrical components from short-circuiting.
- Open the Battery Compartment: If your hearing aids have a battery compartment, open it up to allow air to circulate and aid in drying. Be careful not to damage any delicate components during this process.
- Dry with a Soft Cloth: Gently pat your hearing aids with a soft, dry cloth to remove any excess moisture from the surface. Avoid using heat sources like hairdryers, as they can damage the delicate electronics.
- Use a Drying Kit: If you have a hearing aid drying kit or a dehumidifier, place your hearing aids in it. These devices are designed to remove moisture effectively.
- Wait for Several Hours: Allow your hearing aids to dry for several hours or even overnight. It's crucial to be patient and ensure they are completely dry before attempting to use them again.
- Consult a Professional: If you're uncertain about the extent of the damage or if the issue persists after drying, contact your hearing care professional for assistance. They can assess and repair any potential damage.
