Hearing aid troubleshooting guide

Before diving into complex troubleshooting, start with these fundamental checks that resolve the majority of hearing aid problems:

When your hearing aid produces no sound at all, this can be alarming, but the solution is usually straightforward.

1. Start by checking whether the device is actually switched on—it sounds obvious, but it's the most common oversight.
2. Remove and reinsert the battery, ensuring the positive and negative terminals align correctly with the markings inside the battery compartment.
3. Inspect the sound outlet thoroughly for blockages. Earwax is the main cause of hearing aid malfunction, and even a tiny amount can completely block sound transmission.
4. Use the cleaning tool provided with your hearing aids to gently remove any visible debris from the sound outlet and microphone ports.
5. Never insert anything sharp or use water directly on electronic components.
6. Check whether your hearing aid uses a wax guard or filter system. If present, these may need replacing if they appear discoloured or blocked.

Most modern hearing aids include replacement filters in your maintenance kit.

Feedback—that annoying whistling sound—occurs when amplified sound escapes from your ear and re-enters the hearing aid microphone.

• First, ensure your hearing aid fits properly in your ear. Feedback often indicates the device has become loose or that your ear canal shape has changed.
• Check for earwax buildup in your ear canal or on the hearing aid. Excessive wax can cause sound to bounce back into the microphone.

If you suspect earwax is the problem, book an appointment with your audiologist—never attempt to remove impacted wax yourself with cotton buds.

• Volume settings that are too high for your current needs can also cause feedback.

Try reducing the volume slightly to see if this eliminates the whistling. If you consistently need very high volume to hear adequately, your hearing may have changed and you might need a reassessment.

Hearing aids that work inconsistently can be frustrating to troubleshoot.

• Start by ruling out battery issues—corroded battery contacts or loose battery compartment doors commonly cause intermittent function.
• Clean the battery contacts gently with a dry cotton swab and ensure the battery door closes securely and clicks into place.
• Moisture is a frequent cause of intermittent problems.
• Even if you haven't been swimming or showering with your hearing aids, perspiration, humidity, and condensation can accumulate inside the device.
• Use a hearing aid dehumidifier overnight—these simple devices draw moisture out of the electronic components.

Many audiologists recommend using a dehumidifier every night as preventive maintenance. Physical damage to wiring or internal components can cause intermittent function, particularly if you've dropped your hearing aid recently.

If you suspect internal damage, contact your audiologist as professional repair may be necessary.