Lots of individuals really enjoy winter! Alright, it can definitely be a bummer if you have to go anywhere. Or if you don’t have the proper gear (or proper infrastructure). But there are plenty of fun things to do in those colder winter months.
Don’t believe it? Well, here are only a few instances of how cold weather can be enjoyable: you could go skiing or sledding. You could take a snowmobile ride. You could go out onto the ice for some ice skating or ice fishing. You can enjoy being outside in the winter just as much as the summer, spring, or, autumn if you have the correct gear.
But that’s an important caveat: you need the correct gear to stay comfortable. Maybe you’re wondering if your hearing aid counts as part of that gear and whether it will be effected by the cold. Will the cold damage my hearing aids?
Most hearing aids are designed to be all-weather… to a point
Hearing aids are made to be used full-time. They’re meant to be worn pretty much everywhere you go. Which means that hearing aid manufacturers understand that these devices might take a pounding. But just because hearing aids are designed to be worn all of the time doesn’t mean you should do anything extreme with them.
The majority of hearing aids are manufactured to be basically “all weather” as a result. The safe temperature range for the majority of hearing aids is from -13 to 158 degrees Fahrenheit. There are some places that will sometimes get colder than -13 but usually, that covers the broad range of temperatures.
Which is a good thing! It means you’ll be capable of hearing in most environments. Now, you may be thinking: if that’s true, why don’t my hearing aids function as well in the cold? Hearing aids will function in the cold, just perhaps not as well.
Tips for hearing aids in the winter
You can keep your hearing aids working at close to peak efficiency if you take a few steps.
- Keep your hearing aids secured in your ear by utilizing accessories.: In order to be sure your hearing aids stay securely in place in your ears you can make use of one of many available straps or clips. If you’re participating in any strenuous activities like snowboarding or sledding, this is particularly relevant.
- Getting your hearing aid wet isn’t a good idea: Be cautious not to get snow on your hearing aid because when snow melts, things get wet. If you’re going to ask, “Well, can I wear hearing aids when it’s snowing or raining”? Yes, you can. Though most hearing aren’t waterproof, they are typically water resistant. So while your hearing aid will most likely be okay if it gets a bit wet, you should dry it as soon as you can.
- Speak with us about the fit of your hearing aids: At times, when they get really cold, hearing aids can be uncomfortable. Minimize any possible discomfort by getting help from us with the fit of your device.
- When you’re not using your hearing aids, store them in a dry and warm spot: Your hearing aid will work better and with fewer problems if you keep moisture out of it. Perhaps you’re not certain how to remove moisture from your hearing aid. Usually, you can wipe it down and let it air dry in a warm spot.
- Check your batteries (and make sure they’re charged): Hearing aid batteries don’t necessarily freeze but they will die faster in the cold. This means you’ll want to be certain you have a full charge before going out into any severe weather.
- Try donning a hat or earmuffs: Wearing a hat or earmuffs will keep both your ears and your hearing aid warm. And the warmer your hearing aids are, the more optimally they’ll be working. Your next question might be: can I wear ear muffs over my hearing aid without affecting my hearing? Most hearing aids will still work just fine with earmuffs on.
Perhaps you’re wondering how to safeguard your hearing aids when it gets cold. That’s precisely what we’re going to find out.
If your hearing aid stops working, what should you do?
Of course, even in the best weather conditions, your hearing aid may occasionally stop working. You can take a few basic measures to troubleshoot your device (for example, make sure the batteries are charged and that your devices are good and dry). If you still aren’t able to determine why they aren’t working, we should be able to assist you with that.
You can still enjoy life even when it’s cold!
There are lots of reasons why you might want to stay indoors when it’s -10 degrees outside. Perhaps you’re not a winter person. Perhaps a delicious hot bowl of soup would hit the spot. Possibly snowmobiles aren’t your jam. The important thing is that it shouldn’t be your hearing aids that are preventing you from living your greatest winter life.
That’s particularly true if you take care of your devices, and follow the tips outlined above. If you have any questions about how cold weather may impact the performance of your hearing aids, call us today!