Hearing Aid Batteries and Hearing Aid Dryers
Why You Should Dry Your Hearing Aid Batteries in an Electronic Hearing Aid Dryer
Using a moisture removal pouch or kit can significantly extend the life and power of your hearing aid . Hearing aid dispensaries, manufacturers and audiologists all suggest drying your hearing aid regularly in order to keep it performing at optimal levels for the longest possible time. But did you know that hearing aid dryers can extend the life of your hearing aid battery, as well?
Batteries generally lose power in high-humidity situations, but they perform poorly in overly dry situations, too. For years, drying kit manufacturers have recommended removing the hearing aid battery before drying the hearing aid. However, recent tests have shown that leaving your battery inside your hearing aid while drying it in a moisture removal kit or pouch can extend the life of the battery.
In a random survey of Dry & Store users, over half reported longer battery life when they left the battery in the hearing aid while drying it. There are thought to be several reasons for this:
1. Zinc air battery performance can be affected by high-humidity environments. Moisture accumulating on a hearing instrument can also absorb into the zinc air cell. A hearing aid dryer removes this residual moisture, restoring the battery's conditions to their potimal level.
2. Corrosion on batteries can impede electrical current. Keeping a battery dry can remove this moisture and preserve the battery's surface.
This phenomenon was observed in independent tests conducted by Eveready on Energizer® zinc air batteries. These tests found that leaving the batteries in during drying caused no harm to the batteries, and in high humidity conditions, potentially increased battery life by 10%-20%.
When you decide whether or not to dry your hearing aid batteries, do check the instructions on your hearing aid dryer. Zinc air batteries should not be put into a dryer that gets too hot, so follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
References: Pindzola, K. To Dry or Not To Dry?, Hearing Aid Products Report, October 2005, v. 5:7