In contrast to popular opinion, winter is fun! Well, if you need to go somewhere, it can definitely be difficult. Or if you aren’t properly prepared. But there are plenty of fun things to do in those chillier winter months.
Don’t believe us? Skiing and sledding aren’t the only fun things you can do in the winter. You could go for a snowmobile ride. Or you could get a pair of ice skates and spend a little time out on the ice. You can enjoy being outdoors in the winter just as much as the summer, spring, or, autumn if you have the proper gear.
But the key here is having the appropriate gear. You might be thinking: Does my hearing aid count as “the right gear”… and if so, will cold weather impact my hearing aids? Or will cold weather damage my hearing aids?
Up to a point, most hearing aids will be fine in any weather
Hearing aids are made to be used full-time. They’re made to be worn pretty much everywhere you go. The makers of these devices are well aware that they need to have a robust construction. We don’t suggest you do anything extreme with your hearing aids, just keep in mind that they’re designed to go along with you throughout your normal daily activities.
As a result, most hearing aids are manufactured to be somewhat “all-weather”. The safe temperature range for most hearing aids is from -13 to 158 degrees Fahrenheit. There are some places that will sometimes go below -13 but usually, that covers the broad range of temperatures.
You will be capable of hearing well in most settings and that’s a wonderful thing. Now, you may be thinking: if that’s true, why don’t my hearing aids function as well in the winter? Hearing aids will work in the cold, just maybe not as well.
Tips for hearing aids in the winter
You can keep your hearing aids operating at near maximum efficiency if you take a few measures.
- When you’re not using your hearing aids, store them in a dry and warm place: This will help prevent moisture from causing issues with your hearing aids. You’re most likely asking: “How do I remove moisture from my hearing aids”? Normally, you can wipe it down and let it air dry in a warm spot.
- It helps to wear a hat or earmuffs: Wearing earmuffs or a hat will keep both your ears and your hearing aid cozy. And your hearing aids will operate at their best level if they’re warm. Your next question may be: can I wear ear muffs on top of my hearing aid without impacting my hearing? Well, it depends on the hearing aid, but in most cases, your hearing aids will still continue to work.
- Use accessories to keep your hearing aids secured to your ears: In order to be sure your hearing aids remain securely in place in your ears you can make use of one of many available clips or straps. This can be especially important if you’re engaged in strenuous activity, like skiing, skating, or sledding.
- Try not to get your hearing aids wet: When snow melts, it becomes water, so be cautious about exposing your hearing aids to snow. If you’re wondering whether you can wear your hearing aids in the snow and rain, the answer is yes. Most hearing aids are water resistant but not usually waterproof. So while your hearing aid will probably be okay if it gets a bit wet, you should dry it as soon as you can.
- Monitor your batteries (and make sure they’re charged): Hearing aid batteries don’t necessarily freeze but they will drain faster in the cold. So before you go out in the cold, be sure your battery is fully charged.
- We can help ensure your hearing aid fits correctly: At times, when they get really cold, hearing aids can be uncomfortable. Speak with us about the fit of your devices in order to give yourself the chance to lessen discomfort.
Perhaps you’re wondering how to protect your hearing aids when it gets cold. That’s exactly what we’re going to find out.
If your hearing aid quits working, what should you do?
Occasionally, unfortunately, your hearing aid will stop working even when the weather is warm and dry. You can take a few basic measures to troubleshoot your device (for example, make sure the batteries are charged and that your devices are nice and dry). But if those steps don’t help, we should be able to help you diagnose the cause of the issue and the best way to fix it.
You can still enjoy life even in the cold!
When it’s -10 degrees outside, it’s understandable that you would want to stay indoors. Maybe you aren’t a winter person. Perhaps a nice warm bowl of soup would do the trick. Perhaps you aren’t a big fan of snowmobiles. The essential thing is that it shouldn’t be your hearing aids that are stopping you from living your greatest winter life.
If you observe the tips above and take good care of your hearing aids, this is particularly true. Contact us if you have any concerns about how your hearing aids may be impacted by the cold.