Hearing Aid Batteries For Phonak: Essential Power

by

Phonak hearing aid batteries are small but mighty powerhouses. Choosing the right ones ensures your devices work perfectly, offering clear sound and connectivity. We’ll cover finding the right size, understanding types, and keeping your Phonak hearing aids powered up and ready.

Phonak Hearing Aid Batteries: Essential Power for Clear Hearing

Struggling with hearing aid batteries can be frustrating, especially when you rely on them for clear communication and connection. It’s easy to feel lost amidst different sizes and types, but powering your Phonak hearing aids doesn’t have to be complicated. Think of it like finding the right fuel for your car – essential for it to run smoothly. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Phonak hearing aid batteries, from picking the correct size to understanding what makes them work. We’ll make sure you have the power you need, when you need it. Get ready to understand these tiny but mighty power sources!

Understanding Phonak Hearing Aid Battery Basics

Hearing aid batteries are crucial for the performance of your devices. Without the right power, even the most advanced hearing aid is just a small piece of plastic. Phonak, a leading name in hearing technology, uses standard battery sizes, making it easier to find replacements. These batteries are small, button-cell types that are designed to fit snugly into your hearing aid.

The most common type of battery used in Phonak hearing aids is the zinc-air battery. These batteries are activated by air, which is why they come with a small sticker on the flat side. This sticker seals the battery’s pores, preventing it from discharging until it’s ready to be used. Once you peel off the sticker, air enters the battery, and it begins to produce power.

Why zinc-air? They offer a good balance of energy density (how much power they can hold) and lifespan relative to their small size. This is vital for hearing aids, which need to be compact and run for extended periods throughout the day.

The Different Sizes of Hearing Aid Batteries

Hearing aid batteries come in four main sizes, easily identified by a color-coded sticker. This system is standardized across most hearing aid manufacturers, including Phonak. Knowing these colors and sizes makes buying replacements simple.

  • Size 10 (Yellow): These are the smallest batteries, typically used in very small, discreet hearing aids like completely-in-canal (CIC) or invisible-in-canal (IIC) models. They have the shortest lifespan.
  • Size 312 (Brown): A popular choice for many behind-the-ear (BTE) and in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids. They offer a good balance between size and battery life.
  • Size 13 (Orange): Larger than the 312, these batteries provide a longer lifespan and are often used in more powerful BTE or ITE hearing aids.
  • Size 675 (Blue): These are the largest batteries and offer the longest lifespan. They are commonly used in powerful BTE hearing aids, especially those designed for profound hearing loss or cochlear implants.

When you purchase hearing aids, your audiologist or hearing healthcare professional will tell you exactly which battery size you need. This information is usually printed on the hearing aid itself or in the user manual.

How to Identify Your Phonak Hearing Aid Battery Size

If you’re unsure about your battery size, there are a few ways to find out:

  1. Check Your Hearing Aid: Many Phonak hearing aids have the battery size number printed discreetly on the battery compartment door.
  2. Look at Your Current Batteries: The color-coded sticker on the batteries you are currently using will tell you the size (yellow for 10, brown for 312, orange for 13, blue for 675).
  3. Consult Your User Manual: The manual that came with your Phonak hearing aids will clearly state the required battery size.
  4. Ask Your Audiologist: Your hearing healthcare professional is the best resource. They can confirm the exact size and even recommend specific brands.

It’s crucial to use the correct battery size. Using the wrong size can prevent the hearing aid from fitting properly, affect its performance, or even damage the device.

Zinc-Air vs. Rechargeable Batteries for Phonak Hearing Aids

For a long time, zinc-air batteries were the standard for hearing aids. However, technology has advanced, and rechargeable options are now widely available, including for many Phonak models. Each has its pros and cons.

Zinc-Air Batteries

  • Pros:
    • Readily available and relatively inexpensive.
    • Long shelf life when the tab is intact.
    • Consistent power output.
  • Cons:
    • Require frequent replacement, potentially daily or every few days depending on the hearing aid and usage.
    • Disposable, contributing to waste.
    • Can be difficult to handle for individuals with dexterity issues.
    • Performance can degrade as the battery drains.

Rechargeable Batteries

Many modern Phonak hearing aids are designed with built-in rechargeable batteries. These are convenient and environmentally friendly.

  • Pros:
    • No need for frequent small battery changes – just place them on a charger overnight.
    • More environmentally friendly, reducing battery waste.
    • Easier to handle for those with limited dexterity.
    • Often offer consistent power throughout the day, even as they discharge.
    • Many chargers offer quick-charge options for a few hours of use if you forget to charge overnight.
  • Cons:
    • Higher initial cost for the hearing aids and charging case.
    • Require access to a power outlet and the charger.
    • Battery life can degrade over several years, eventually requiring the hearing aid to be serviced or replaced.
    • Reliance on the charging system means if you lose the charger or power is unavailable, you’re without power. (Though many devices can still be operated while charging).

When choosing between zinc-air and rechargeable, consider your lifestyle, dexterity, and budget. For many, the convenience of rechargeable batteries is a significant advantage. Phonak offers rechargeable options across many of their product lines.

How to Properly Handle and Insert Phonak Hearing Aid Batteries

Handling hearing aid batteries correctly ensures they last as long as possible and that your devices work optimally. It also ensures safety.

Steps for Inserting Coin Cell Batteries (Zinc-Air)

  1. Identify the Battery: Make sure you have the correct size and type for your Phonak hearing aid.
  2. Locate the Battery Compartment: This is usually a small door on the hearing aid that flips open.
  3. Peel Off the Sticker: Gently peel off the colored sticker from the flat side of the battery. Crucially, do not poke or try to remove the battery from its packaging until you are ready to insert it.
  4. Wait for Activation: Once the sticker is removed, air needs to enter the battery. Wait at least 1 minute (some manufacturers recommend up to 5 minutes) for the battery to reach full power after removing the sticker. This step is vital for ensuring your hearing aid receives full power.
  5. Identify Polarity: The battery has a flat, positive (+) side (usually marked with printing) and a slightly rounded negative (-) side.
  6. Insert Correctly: The positive (+) side (with the printing) typically faces upwards in Phonak hearing aids. Slide the edge of the battery into the compartment and then gently push the other side down until the compartment door clicks shut.
  7. Check for Operation: Your hearing aid should power on. Some might have an audible tone to indicate they are working.

Important Handling Tips for Zinc-Air Batteries:

  • Keep Stickers On Until Use: The sticker protects the battery from air. Removing it prematurely wastes its power.
  • Handle with Care: Avoid touching the flat, exposed surface after removing the sticker. Body oils can interfere with the battery’s connection.
  • Store Properly: Keep spare batteries in a cool, dry place. Do not store them in metal containers or with loose change, as this can cause them to short-circuit.
  • Dispose of Used Batteries Safely: Do not throw used batteries into regular trash in many locations. Check with your local waste disposal guidelines for battery recycling. Some pharmacies or hearing aid providers offer battery recycling programs.

Handling Rechargeable Hearing Aids

For rechargeable Phonak hearing aids, the process is much simpler:

  1. Place in Charger: Simply place the hearing aids into their charging case or on the charging stand. Ensure they are seated correctly.
  2. Connect to Power: Make sure the charger is plugged into a working electrical outlet.
  3. Check Charging Indicator: Most chargers have an LED light that indicates charging status. Refer to your Phonak model’s manual for what the lights mean.
  4. Full Charge: Devices typically charge fully overnight, providing a full day or more of power.

It’s important to use the charger provided by Phonak for your specific model to ensure optimal battery health and charging performance.


  
    

      Battery Size
      Color Code
      Typical Use Cases
      Approximate Lifespan (hours of use)
    

  
  
    

      10
      Yellow
      Very small, discreet aids (CIC, IIC)
      50 - 100
    

    

      312
      Brown
      Most BTE and ITE aids
      100 - 180
    

    

      13
      Orange
      Larger BTE and ITE aids, some power aids
      150 - 250
    

    

      675
      Blue
      Powerful BTE aids, cochlear implants
      200 - 300+

Note: Lifespans are approximate and can vary significantly based on device features (like Bluetooth streaming, volume settings), environmental conditions, and battery quality.

Maximizing the Lifespan of Your Phonak Hearing Aid Batteries

Getting the most out of your hearing aid batteries, whether they are disposable or rechargeable, involves a few smart habits. These tips will help ensure you have power when you need it and keep your batteries performing their best.

Tips for Zinc-Air Batteries:

  • Always Wait 1-5 Minutes After Removing the Tab: As mentioned, this allows air to activate the battery fully. Skipping this can lead to a shorter operational life from that battery.
  • Turn Off Hearing Aids When Not in Use: If you take your hearing aids out for an extended period (e.g., sleeping), open the battery door. This significantly reduces power drain. For some Phonak models, there might be specific power-off functions; check your manual.
  • Avoid Humid Environments: High humidity can affect zinc-air battery performance. Store batteries and hearing aids in a dry place. A dehumidifier designed for hearing aids can be very helpful.
  • Keep Batteries Away from Metal Objects: Loose batteries can short-circuit if they come into contact with coins, keys, or other metal items. Store them in their original packaging or a dedicated battery case.
  • Use the Correct Size and Quality Brand: Ensure you are using the specified size and consider reputable brands known for quality and consistency.

Tips for Rechargeable Hearing Aids:

  • Charge Daily: The most straightforward way to ensure you always have power is to charge your hearing aids every night. This mirrors how you charge your smartphone.
  • Keep the Charging Contacts Clean: Small debris or earwax can accumulate on the charging contacts of the hearing aids and the charger. Gently clean them with a dry, soft brush or cotton swab. Phonak provides cleaning tools with many of their chargers.
  • Use the Supplied Charger: Always use the Phonak charger that came with your hearing aids. Other chargers may not be compatible and could damage the batteries or charging system.
  • Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Just like with smartphones, exposing rechargeable batteries to extreme heat or cold can degrade their long-term performance and capacity.
  • Understand Battery Degradation: Like all rechargeable batteries, the ones in your hearing aids will eventually lose their capacity to hold a charge. This is a natural process that occurs over several years. If you notice a significant decrease in battery life, consult your hearing healthcare provider.
  • Check Charging Port for Debris: Occasionally, the charging ports on the hearing aids can get clogged with wax or dirt. Clean them carefully as per your device’s manual.

By following these practices, you can help ensure your Phonak hearing aids are always ready to provide you with clear, comfortable hearing.

Troubleshooting Common Phonak Hearing Aid Battery Issues

Even with the best care, you might encounter issues with your Phonak hearing aid batteries. Here are some common problems and how to solve them.

Issue 1: Hearing Aid Not Turning On

Possible Causes:

  • Dead battery.
  • Battery inserted incorrectly.
  • Battery tab not fully removed or battery not activated.
  • Battery compartment not closed properly.

Solutions:

  1. Replace the battery with a new one.
  2. Double-check the battery orientation (positive side up).
  3. Peel off the sticker and wait 1-5 minutes before inserting.
  4. Ensure the battery door clicks shut securely.
  5. For rechargeable aids, ensure they are properly seated in the charger and the charger is powered on. Check charging indicator lights.

Issue 2: Hearing Aid Sounds Weak or Distorted

Possible Causes:

  • Low battery power.
  • Battery is old and nearing the end of its life.
  • Accumulation of earwax or moisture in the hearing aid’s sound outlet or microphone port.

Solutions:

  1. Replace the battery with a fresh one.
  2. Clean the hearing aid according to the user manual, paying attention to the sound outlet and microphone openings. Use a soft brush or cleaning tool.
  3. For rechargeable devices, check the battery charge level.

Issue 3: Battery Drains Too Quickly

Possible Causes:

  • Frequent use of wireless features (like Bluetooth streaming).
  • High volume settings.
  • Battery is old or faulty.
  • Hearing aid is exposed to extreme temperatures or humidity.
  • Open battery door when not in use.

Solutions:

  1. Reduce wireless streaming time or use in shorter bursts.
  2. Try lowering the volume when appropriate.
  3. Ensure hearing aids are turned off (by opening the battery door) when not in wear for extended periods.
  4. Store hearing aids and batteries in a dry, moderate-temperature environment.
  5. Try a new battery from a different pack or brand to rule out a batch issue.
  6. For rechargeable aids, monitor battery life over a few days. If a consistently rapid drain occurs, consult your audiologist.

Issue 4: Difficulty Inserting or Removing Batteries

Possible Causes:

  • Dexterity challenges.
  • Using the wrong battery size.
  • Bent battery contacts within the compartment.

Solutions:

  1. Use a battery insertion/removal tool if provided by Phonak or recommended by your audiologist.
  2. Ensure you are using the correct battery size for your hearing aid.
  3. Gently inspect the battery compartment for any bent metal contacts. If you find any, do not attempt to bend them back yourself. Consult your hearing healthcare professional, as they have specialized tools and knowledge for this.
  4. For rechargeable hearing aids, this issue should not occur as you are not handling small coin cells.

If you continue to experience problems after trying these troubleshooting steps, it’s always best to contact your audiologist or the support team for Phonak. They can provide personalized assistance and ensure your hearing aids are functioning correctly.

For more detailed information on hearing aid care and maintenance, the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), a part of the U.S. National Institutes of Health, offers valuable resources on its website (www.nidcd.nih.gov).</p

Leave a Comment