How to Change a BTE Hearing Aid Tube

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Maintenance of the tube of your BTE Hearing Aid

If you wear traditional Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids, you know the clear plastic tubing is vital for carrying sound from the device into your ear mould. Knowing how to change BTE hearing aid tube ensures consistent, clear hearing.
At Amplifon Australia, we combine trusted expertise with practical, simple advice to help you get the most out of your devices. The tubing can harden, discolour, or crack over time, leading to poor sound quality, which is why replacement is important.

Our commitment to ongoing care ensures you always have the right supplies and know-how to keep your powerful hearing aids working perfectly. If you are struggling to change the BTE hearing aid tube or need new parts, book a quick appointment with one of our specialists across Australia.

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What is the BTE hearing aid tube and why should it be replaced?

The BTE tube is a small, clear piece of hearing aid plastic tubes that connects the main body of the hearing aid (which sits behind the ear) to the custom ear mould (which sits in the ear canal). The BTE hearing aid tube is crucial because it conducts the amplified sound signal from the BTE microphone/amplifier into your ear. Over time, body heat, moisture, and UV exposure cause the plastic to stiffen and shrink. This can cause whistling (feedback) and make the sound muffled or distorted, necessitating a hearing aid tube replacement.

How often should BTE hearing aid tubes be changed?

Tubing flexibility and clarity are key to BTE performance. Stiff or discoloured tubing needs immediate attention.

The plastic tubing in BTE hearing aids should be changed routinely every three to six months, or immediately if the tubing hardens, kinks, or turns yellow. We recommend incorporating a hearing aid tube replacement into your bi-annual professional cleaning schedule. Regular replacement ensures a secure, comfortable fit and prevents sound leakage.

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Our hearing care professional are at your disposal to check the quality of your hearing and the maintenance of your hearing aid.

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Step-by-Step Guide: How to replace BTE hearing aid tubes

Changing the tube on your behind the ear hearing aid is a user-friendly process, especially if you have a replacement kit. However, our team of professional hearing care professionals are always avialable to help with the maintenance of your device.
If you are replacing the tube, you can follow these simple steps:

1. Preparation

Wash your hands thoroughly and gather your new tubing and the ear mould. You may need a small trimming tool, such as sharp scissors or a utility knife (handle with care).

2. Remove the Old Tube

Gently but firmly twist and pull the old, stiff tube off the ear hook (the curved piece on the top of the hearing aid body). Then, pull the old tube out of the ear mould.

3. Clean the Mould

Use a specialised hearing aid tube cleaners or a small air puffer to ensure the ear hook and the hole in the ear mould are free of wax and debris.

4. Insert the New Tube

Push the straight end of the new hearing aid plastic tubes onto the ear hook coupling. It should fit snugly.

5. Attach the Mould

Thread the other end of the tube through the hole in the ear mould.

6. Trim and Secure

If the tubing is too long, you will need to trim it. The tube should sit perfectly against your ear, without looping or pulling. It is critical that the length is correct for a comfortable fit. If you are unsure about trimming, we strongly recommend booking an appointment with an Amplifon specialist to ensure a professional fit.

Where can I get support with my Amplifon hearing aid tubes?

While simple, fitting and trimming the tubing to the correct size is crucial for preventing feedback and discomfort. For expert hearing aid tube replacement, correct sizing, and parts, contact your nearest Amplifon clinic. Our audiologists will ensure the tube length is precisely tailored to your ear for maximum comfort and acoustic seal. We are committed to providing the superior expertise needed to maintain your BTE hearing aids. We also supply specialized hearing aid tube replacement kits.

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If your tubing is discoloured, stiff, or you need professional hearing aid tube replacement and sizing, book a maintenance check with an Amplifon audiologist.

Frequently Asked Questions about BTE tube care

How do I know if the tubing is too long or too short?

If the tube is too long, the ear mould won't sit securely in your ear and might cause whistling. If it's too short, it will pull on the hearing aid body and create an uncomfortable, tight fit. The mould should fit gently and snugly when the tube is attached to the BTE unit.

Can I clean the inside of the hearing aid tubes?

Yes, the inside of the plastic tubing can be cleaned using a small, specialised wire loop (often found in hearing aid tube cleaners kits). After cleaning, detach the tube and ensure it is completely dry before reattaching it to the hearing aid body. Excess moisture inside the tube can block sound transmission.

Will replacing the tube fix my whistling (feedback) problem?

If the tubing is old, cracked, or stiff, replacing it will often fix feedback problems by ensuring a tight seal with the ear mould and the hearing aid hook. However, if whistling continues after a new tube is fitted, the ear mould may need professional remoulding or the hearing aid needs recalibration.

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