Purchasing a new hearing aid is considered by many as an expensive investment, especially factoring in the accessories that are needed to keep the device functioning at its optimal best. With so many different products on the market, how exactly do you determine which hearing aid battery will work best for your model while providing the best value?
The key to selecting the proper battery type is first identifying the battery size that your hearing aid requires. A standardized color-coding system has been developed to accompany the battery size, making it an easier process for customers to select the right battery type.
All major manufacturers of hearing aid batteries utilize this system. Therefore, simply choosing a package with the right matching color will ensure that you are picking the right battery off the shelf for your hearing aid.
Hearing aid batteries generally fall within four sizes categories, including blue (675), yellow (10), orange (12) and brown (312). Most hearing aids will require one of these sizes. However, if a different battery size is needed, then a special order can be placed either online or at your local retail store.
The blue (675) battery is normally used in the Behind-the-Ear (BTE) hearing aid models. Certain cochlear implants may also require this size. This type of battery has the wonderful benefit of having a super long battery life, lasing almost 300 hours.
The yellow (10) battery typically powers the In-the-Canal (ITC) and Completely-in-Canal (CIC) hearing aids. This size battery is normally the easiest to find in stores. However, compared to the blue (675), this battery has a way shorter lifespan, estimated at only approximately 80 hours.
The orange (13) can be used in specific Behind-the-Ear (BTE) and In-the-Ear (ITE) hearing aids. This type of battery also has a long battery life, powering the hearing aid for about 240 hours.
The last battery size that is required for certain hearing aids is the brown (312). This battery can be used in the ITC and ITE hearing devices and has a lifespan of approximately 175 hours.
Although some rechargeable batteries are available to power specific hearing aids, zinc-air disposable batteries are the most common type that are used by major manufacturers. This battery is air-activated and can be stored for up to three years.
The performance of your hearing aid is dependent upon using a high-quality battery. Several different brands of hearing aid batteries are available for purchase, depending on the user’s preference and budget.
Regardless of your hearing aid model, the best batteries are ones that offer premium quality at an affordable price. Panasonic, Duracell, Rayovac, and Power-One are among the most popular brands available today.
Purchasing a hearing aid battery trial pack may be a great start. This allows you the ability to test out several different brands without buying an entire pack of each. If you are still indecisive on the best battery for your specific hearing device, then contact our office for a recommendation today.
