September 24, 2023

Hearing aids are often quite expensive and are typically devices that are used for several years, so in many cases, hearing aid repair becomes necessary during their use. This article provides you with everything you need to know about hearing aid repair, from simple troubleshooting without hearing aid repair to how to find a hearing aid repair center near you, so please stay tuned.

Troubleshoot the Common Problem Before Hearing Aid Repair

• Power Issue:

Make sure you've turned on the power properly. We often forget the everyday things.

• Volume Issue:

If the power and batteries are fine but you still can't hear anything, double-check if the current volume is not set to zero. Surprisingly, the issue may be closer than you think.

• Dead or Weak Batteries:

One of the most common issues is depleted or weak batteries. Replacing the batteries can often resolve the problem.

• Wax Buildup Issue:

Earwax can accumulate in the hearing aid's receiver or microphone, reducing sound quality or causing it to stop working. Regular cleaning can prevent this issue.
You should clean it with specialized hearing aid cleaning tools. The instructions for this are detailed in the previous article, so please refer to it.
(How to remove ear wax from hearing aids)

• Feedback or Whistling Issue:

Feedback or whistling sounds can occur if the hearing aid isn't properly inserted in the ear or if there's a problem with the device's settings. Check if the hearing aid is inserted properly into your ear.

• For BTE (behind-the-ear) models, Tube Issue:

If the tube has come off or is worn out, it may not function correctly. In such cases, simply reattach it properly or replace it with a new tube.

All of these are a checklist you must go through before going through the hassle of getting your hearing aids repaired. Be sure to check, and if none of these apply, it's time to visit the hearing aid repair center.

Hearing Aid Repair Near you

To find a hearing aid repair center near you in the US, you can follow these steps:

• Use Online Search Engines: Start by using popular search engines like Google, Bing, or Yahoo. Enter keywords like "hearing aid repair near me" or "hearing aid service center" along with your city or ZIP code.

• Online Directories: There are online directories that list various businesses, including hearing aid repair centers. Websites like Yelp, Yellow Pages, and Angie's List can help you find local options.

• Manufacturer Websites: If you have a specific brand of hearing aids, visit the manufacturer's official website. They often provide a "Find a Provider" or "Store Locator" feature that can help you locate authorized repair centers near your location.

• Ask for Referrals: Consult with your audiologist or hearing care professional. They may have recommendations for reputable hearing aid repair centers in your area.

• Local Yellow Pages: Check the local Yellow Pages directory for hearing aid repair services under the "Hearing Aids" or "Medical Equipment Repair" sections.

• Hearing Aid Retailers: Contact local hearing aid retailers or clinics. They may offer in-house repair services or can recommend nearby repair centers.

• Online Forums and Communities: Participate in online hearing loss forums or communities. Other members may have recommendations for repair centers in your area.

• Social Media: Search on social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter. Many businesses have social media profiles with location information and customer reviews.

• Local Hospitals or Medical Centers: Some medical facilities have audiology departments that offer hearing aid repair services or can refer you to nearby centers.

• Review Sites: Read reviews and ratings on platforms like Google Reviews or Yelp to assess the quality of service provided by different repair centers.

• Check for Certification: Ensure that the repair center you choose has certified technicians and is reputable.

Hearing Aid Repair Cost

The cost of repairing hearing aids can vary widely based on several factors, including the type of repair needed, the brand and model of the hearing aids, whether they are under warranty, and where you choose to get them repaired. Here are some approximate cost ranges for hearing aid repairs in the United States:

• Minor Repairs: Minor repairs, such as cleaning, replacing a battery door, or fixing a minor connectivity issue, can range from $50 to $150 per hearing aid.

• Standard Repairs: Standard repairs, which may involve fixing a specific component like a microphone or speaker, can cost anywhere from $150 to $300 per hearing aid.

• Major Repairs: Major repairs, such as replacing a damaged shell or extensive internal component replacements, can be more expensive and may range from $300 to $600 or more per hearing aid.

• Warranty Repairs: If your hearing aids are still under warranty and the issue is covered by the warranty, the repair cost may be minimal or even free. Check your warranty terms for details.

• Manufacturer Repair Centers: Manufacturer repair centers may have standardized pricing for specific repairs, and costs can vary depending on the brand and model. Prices set by the manufacturer may be on the higher side.

• Independent Repair Shops: Independent hearing aid repair shops may offer competitive pricing and sometimes have more flexibility in pricing, potentially offering cost savings.

• Insurance Coverage: Some insurance plans, including Medicare and private health insurance, may cover the cost of hearing aid repairs, especially if the repairs are related to medical issues. Check your insurance policy for details.

It's important to note that these cost ranges are approximate and can change over time. Additionally, specific repair costs will depend on the nature of the problem and the individual hearing aid. When seeking hearing aid repairs, it's advisable to obtain quotes from multiple repair centers, consider warranty coverage, and discuss options with your hearing care professional or audiologist to make an informed decision.

How to prevent Hearing Aid Repair

• Keep your hearing aids dry

Our ears can accumulate moisture, especially when wearing hearing aids throughout the day. It's essential to remove your hearing aids and let them dry in a well-ventilated area overnight.

Additionally, for individuals who sweat profusely, it's advisable to take out your hearing aids every few hours while wearing them and use a tissue to wipe away sweat and moisture.

• Keep your ears dry

Hearing aids can be affected by moisture due to the significant moisture content in our ears. This can lead to not only hearing aid repair issues but also potentially more significant problems like ear infections.

• Clean your hearing aids reguraly

Earwax is a major culprit for ITE (in-the-ear) hearing aid malfunctions. Earwax contains a substantial amount of moisture, making it a common cause of hearing aid repair needs.

However, it's essential never to use general tools like sharp needles to remove earwax as it can damage the sensitive hearing aid. Instead, use hearing aid-specific cleaning tools with soft filters to gently remove earwax.