Contrary to popular opinion, winter is fun! Okay, it can definitely be a bummer if you have to get somewhere. Or if you don’t have the correct gear (or proper infrastructure). But there are plenty of fun things to do in those colder winter months.
Still not convinced? Sledding and skiing aren’t the only enjoyable things you can do in the winter. You could take a snowmobile ride. Or you could get a pair of ice skates and spend some time out on the ice. You can enjoy being outside in the winter just as much as the summer, spring, or, autumn if you have the proper gear.
But that’s a significant caveat: you need the right gear to remain comfortable. Maybe you’re wondering if your hearing aid counts as part of that gear and whether it will be impacted by the cold. Or can cold weather damage my hearing aids?
Most hearing aids are designed to be all-weather… to a point
Hearing aids are manufactured to be worn every day. They’re constructed so you can wear them to the grocery store, out on a hike, or just around the house. The manufacturers of these devices understand that they need to have a resilient construction. We don’t suggest you do anything extreme with your hearing aids, just remember that they’re designed to accompany you throughout your normal daily activities.
Most hearing aids are built to be basically “all weather” as a result. Most hearing aids can work quite nicely between the temperatures of -13 and 158 degrees Fahrenheit. There are some places that will sometimes go below -13 but otherwise, that covers the broad spectrum of temperatures.
Which is a good thing! It means you’ll be able to hear in most environments. Now, you may be thinking: if that’s true, why don’t my hearing aids work as well in the cold? Hearing aids will function in the cold, just perhaps not as well.
Tips for hearing aids in the winter
Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to help ensure your hearing aids continue to work at maximum efficiency (or near enough) even in cold weather.
- We can help make sure your hearing aid fits properly: At times, when they get really cold, hearing aids can be uncomfortable. Reduce any possible discomfort by getting help from us with the fit of your device.
- Keep your hearing aids secured in your ear by utilizing accessories.: There are all manner of straps and clips you can use to make sure your hearing aids stay in place. This can be particularly important if you’re engaged in strenuous activity, such as skiing, skating, or sledding.
- Check your batteries (and make sure they’re charged): Hearing aid batteries don’t necessarily freeze but they will die quicker in the cold. So before you go out in the cold, make sure your battery is completely charged.
- Try wearing a hat or earmuffs: Not only will this keep your ears cozy, it’ll keep your hearing aids warm, too! And your hearing aids will operate at their best level if they are warm. Perhaps you’re wondering whether your hearing aids will still function if you have earmuffs over them. Most hearing aids will continue to work just fine with earmuffs on.
- When you’re not using your hearing aids, store them in a dry and warm spot: Your hearing aid will function better and with fewer problems if you keep moisture out of it. You’re most likely asking: “How do I eliminate moisture from my hearing aids”? In the majority of cases, you can dry it off and then leave it someplace warm and dry.
- Try not to let your hearing aid wet: When snow melts, it’s wet, so be mindful about exposing your hearing aids to snow. If you’re wondering whether you can wear your hearing aids in the rain or snow, the answer is yes. Even though most hearing aren’t waterproof, they are normally water resistant. This means your hearing aid can most likely get a little wet, but it’s not a very good idea to leave it that way longer than you have to.
Perhaps you’re wondering how to safeguard your hearing aids when it gets cold. That’s exactly what we’re going to explore.
What should you do if your hearing aids quit working?
Of course, even in the best weather conditions, your hearing aid might occasionally stop working. You can take a few basic steps to troubleshoot your device (make sure your device is dry and the batteries are charged, for example). If you still can’t figure out why they aren’t working, we should be able to help you with that.
You can still enjoy life even when it’s cold!
When it’s -10 degrees outside, it’s understandable that you would want to stay inside. Perhaps you don’t enjoy the cold. Perhaps a delicious hot bowl of soup would hit the spot. Possibly snowmobiles aren’t your jam. The important thing is that it shouldn’t be your hearing aids that are stopping you from living your best winter life.
That’s particularly true if you take care of your devices, and observe the guidelines outlined above. Call us if you have any questions about how your hearing aids might be impacted by the cold.