Hearing aid batteries

Now that you have purchased your hearing aids, you will want to keep them powered throughout your day so you’re always hearing your best.

Types of hearing aid batteries

While there are some instances that a hearing aid uses a rechargeable battery, the majority of modern hearing aids use one of four common sizes of disposable, button cell, zinc-air batteries (10, 312, 13 and 675). Older hearing aids often used mercury battery cells, but these cells have become banned in most countries today, as they are poisonous and environmentally unfriendly.

Zinc-air batteries “turn on” when oxygen in the air interacts with the zinc in the battery and “air-activates” it. Zinc-air batteries are labelled with a manufacturer colour coded sticker. The expiration date is labelled on the battery package and informs you that the battery is good until this date, as long as the sticker on the battery is not removed.

Hearing aid battery sizes

Hearing aid batteries come in different sizes, indicated by the colour on the sticker, for different hearing aid power needs. Essentially, the larger and more powerful the hearing aid, the larger the battery required.

• Size 10 – yellow sticker, smallest battery
• Size 312 - brown sticker
• Size 13 – orange sticker
• Size 675 – blue sticker, largest battery

Modern hearing aid zinc-air batteries are typically referred to by their number or, most notably, the colour of their packaging.

Battery colour coding system is used internationally, so no matter where you travel, you can always find your colour coded battery size.

How long will my hearing aid batteries last?

Battery life is variable based on the power of your hearing aids and hours of wear each day. Assuming you wear your hearing aids 16 hours each day, the batteries will last anywhere between 3 and 22 days. Because this is a large range, consult your hearing care professional who can tell you more specifically what to expect from your hearing aid battery life based on your devices.

A general guideline for how long a battery should last for someone who uses their hearing aids every day is as follows: 

• Size 10 (yellow) - 3-6 days
• Size 312 (brown) - 10-14 days
• Size 13 (orange) - 2-3 weeks
• Size 675 (blue) - 3-4 weeks

Hearing aids with added features such as wireless capability or streaming have a direct influence on the running time of the hearing aid battery. Therefore, battery running times may also vary depending on the activity of these additional features.

If you are experiencing shortened battery life, our hearing aid battery care tips below can help. If you are still experiencing lower than expected battery life, there may be an issue with your hearing device. In this case, consult your hearing aids’ user manual or contact your hearing healthcare professional to ensure everything is working properly.

Changing my hearing aid battery

Some hearing aids provide an audible notification such as a short beeping sound once they are low and ready to be changed. Another way to know if your battery should be changed is if the sound becomes distorted or you need to turn up the volume more than usual. Be sure to switch the batteries immediately when this occurs to ensure you are getting the most power from your hearing aids.

Once you get used to wearing your hearing aids, you will find you depend on them to get through each day, hearing and communicating with ease. To avoid disruptions due to expired hearing aid batteries, get in the habit of carrying extra batteries with you on the go. You can safely store them in the carrying case or pouch that accompanies your hearing aids.

To use a zinc-air battery remove the sticker from the flat and shiny positive side of the battery. Once the battery is exposed to air, the life of the battery has started. Wait at least two minutes after removing the sticker to fully activate the battery before placing it in the hearing device. Zinc-air batteries cannot be re-activated by replacing the sticker.

Storing hearing aid batteries

Zinc-air batteries have a long shelf life and can be stored for up to 3 years in a dry environment at room temperature, as long as the sticker is not removed. Always refer to the expiration date on your battery package. Be sure not to store your hearing aid batteries in heat or humid environments, such as a hot car on a summer day, as this can shorten the longevity of your battery power. Finally, avoid storing hearing aid batteries in the refrigerator, as cold temperatures do not slow down the expiration period.

Batteries in contact with metal objects such as keys or coins can cause a hearing aid battery to short-circuit, therefore it is recommended to never carry individual batteries loose in a pocket, wallet or handbag. Safely store your batteries in the hearing aid accessory case, provided by your hearing clinic or keep them in the original package until when needed.

Spend less time worrying about changing your batteries and more time on enjoying life.

Hearing aid battery care tips:

• Store hearing aid batteries at room temperature.
• Keep away from heat or humid environments.
• Do not refrigerate.
• Keep your hands clean when handling hearing aid batteries, as grease and dirt may damage the battery causing it to be ineffective.
• Keep batteries away from keys, coins or other metals objects.
• Open hearing aid battery door at night or when not in use to avoid battery drain and prevent moisture build-up.
• Remove dead batteries from hearing aids immediately to avoid corrosion.
• Regularly clean your hearing aids.

Safe disposal of hearing aid batteries

Most hearing clinics provide a battery disposal service where you can drop off your used batteries and they can be safely recycled for you.

This is not only convenient for you to do at your next visit into your hearing clinic, but you are also supporting a cleaner and safer method in reducing harmful effects to the environment.

Purchasing hearing aid batteries

Hearing aid batteries can be purchased through your local hearing healthcare provider, but they are also typically available at local pharmacies, grocery or electronic retail stores. Should you choose to purchase batteries through your hearing healthcare provider, some offer the additional bonus of a convenient “battery club.”

Battery clubs usually offer discounted or free batteries as part of a warranty package for a subscribed time period. Your battery club membership will also be able to provide you with information on the size of your battery for your specific device on your next visit, without the hassle of you having to remember to bring your used battery package for reference. Be sure to ask your hearing healthcare provider for more details about what they offer.