How to check a hearing aid works and all its parts are in good order, hearing aid care equipment.
Steps to checking a hearing aid works
To check a hearing aid works:
- Check that the hook isn’t cracked or blocked and that the ear mould is clean and free from wax.
- If needed, place a new battery in the battery compartment and close to turn the hearing aid on.
- Cup your hand around the hearing aid to hear it whistle (acoustic feedback) This is a good indication that the hearing aid is working.
- Use a stetoclip with an attenuator to listen to the hearing aid to check the quality of the sound as some hearing aids are powerful. You can buy these from the Sensory Support Service or from Connevans.
Other things to check
Tubing
Tubing needs to be free from moisture and shouldn’t be discoloured or cracked.
Use a puffer to remove any water droplets. Separate the tubing from the hook of the hearing aid, place the puffer in the tube and squeeze.
Earmoulds
Earmoulds must be a good fit to prevent sound leaking out (acoustic feedback). It’s important to keep the ear mould clean and free from wax.
Battery compartments
Some battery compartments have a child lock to keep the battery from being removed by a young child. Ask your Hearing Support Teacher for advice.
Keep batteries out of the reach of young children. Dispose of used batteries carefully.
You can also use our pdf How to check a hearing aid guide (255 KB) .
Hearing aid care equipment
Hearing aid care equipment is useful for daily management of hearing aids.
You can buy it:
- directly online
- by telephone through a specialist company
Stetoclip with variable attenuator
This is used to listen to sound quality through a hearing aid. The attenuator is essential for listeners with good hearing to dampen the amplified sound from powerful hearing aids.
The plastic wheel can be gradually released for listening at a comfortable level. The mushroom ear pieces are made of plastic for wiping with a medicated wipe after use.
Good hygiene practice is essential if a stetoclip is shared between users, to avoid the risk of cross infection.
Puffer
A puffer is used to blow out moisture from earmoulds and tubing. Some children can perspire more than others and moisture can have an effect on the sound from a hearing aid as it travels through the tubing and earmould.
Products are available from on the Connevans website. You can also phone Customer Service on 01737 247571.