Hearing Aid Not Working? Troubleshooting Guide

Your hearing aid suddenly stopped working or sounds different? Before panicking, most common hearing aid problems have simple solutions you can try at home. This troubleshooting guide covers the most frequent issues and their fixes. If these steps do not resolve the problem, our team is just an email away.

Problem 1: No Sound at All

This is the most common complaint. Try these steps in order:

• Check the battery: Open the battery door, remove the battery, and insert a fresh one. Make sure the positive side (flat side with + symbol) faces up. For rechargeable models, ensure the device is fully charged.
• Check the battery door: The battery door must close completely. If it will not close, the battery may be inserted incorrectly or the wrong size.
• Check the volume: If your hearing aid has a manual volume wheel, turn it up. It may have been accidentally turned down.
• Check the wax guard: Look at the sound outlet. If the wax guard is clogged with earwax, replace it with a new one from your cleaning kit.
• Check the tube (BTE models): Inspect the tube connecting the hearing aid to the earmold. If you see moisture droplets, use a tube blower to clear them. If the tube is cracked or stiff, it needs replacement.
• Dry the hearing aid: Place it in a dehumidifier overnight. Moisture inside the device is a common cause of sudden failure.

Problem 2: Sound is Weak or Muffled

• Clean the sound outlet: Earwax buildup is the most common cause. Use the wax pick to gently remove wax and replace the wax guard.
• Clean the microphone port: Use the brush to gently clean the microphone opening. Dust or debris can block sound pickup.
• Check for moisture: Condensation in the tube or receiver reduces volume. Dry the hearing aid in a dehumidifier.
• Try a new battery: A weak battery produces weak sound. Even if the current battery is not dead, it may be low.
• Check the dome or earmold fit: If the dome has shifted or the earmold does not seal properly, sound leaks out, reducing perceived volume.

Problem 3: Whistling or Feedback

Whistling (feedback) occurs when amplified sound leaks out of the ear and re-enters the microphone. Common causes and fixes:

• Reinsert the hearing aid: The most common cause is improper insertion. Remove it and carefully reseat it in your ear.
• Check the earmold/dome: If the earmold has shrunk or the dome is the wrong size, sound leaks cause feedback. You may need a new earmold or a different dome size.
• Lower the volume: If the volume is set too high, feedback is more likely. Try reducing it slightly.
• Check for earwax: Excessive earwax in your ear canal reflects sound back toward the microphone. Consider getting your ears cleaned by a doctor.
• Check the tube: A cracked or loose tube connection can cause feedback in BTE models.

Problem 4: Crackling or Static Noise

• Moisture damage: This is the most likely cause. Place the hearing aid in a dehumidifier for 8-12 hours.
• Battery contacts: Open the battery door and gently clean the battery contacts with a dry cloth. Corrosion causes intermittent connections.
• Loose battery: If the battery is slightly loose, it may cause intermittent contact. Try a fresh battery.

Problem 5: Short Battery Life

• Leave the battery door open at night: This prevents battery drain when the hearing aid is not in use.
• Store batteries at room temperature: Do not keep batteries in very hot or cold places.
• Remove the battery tab only when ready to use: Once the tab is removed, the battery starts draining.
• Check for moisture: Moisture causes batteries to drain faster. Use a dehumidifier regularly.
• Old hearing aids draw more power: As components age, they may draw more current, reducing battery life.

Problem 6: Hearing Aid is Uncomfortable

• New users: It takes 2-4 weeks to adjust to wearing a hearing aid. Start with a few hours daily and gradually increase.
• Sore spot: If a specific area is irritated, the earmold may need modification. Contact us for guidance.
• Occluded feeling: If your ear feels plugged, the vent in the earmold may be blocked. Clean the vent with the wax pick.

When to Seek Professional Help

Contact us if the problem persists after trying the troubleshooting steps, if you notice physical damage, if the hearing aid was dropped in water, or if the sound quality has gradually degraded despite cleaning. We provide free troubleshooting guidance by email and can arrange repair service if needed.