Yes, it is generally recommended to keep your rechargeable hearing aid charger plugged in all the time. This practice supports optimal battery health and ensures your hearing aids are always ready for use.
Why Constant Charging is Recommended
Unlike some older battery technologies, modern rechargeable hearing aid batteries benefit from consistent charging. Keeping the charger plugged in and always placing your hearing aids in the charging station when not in use—even if they haven't been fully drained—is the advised approach.
Key benefits of continuous charging:
- Battery Longevity: Constant charging will not drain the battery or shorten its life. In fact, the opposite is true; this method can help maintain the battery's health and extend its overall lifespan.
- Optimal Performance: By consistently returning your hearing aids to a plugged-in charger, you ensure they receive the necessary charge, leading to consistent performance throughout their daily use.
- Convenience: Your hearing aids will always be fully charged and ready to go whenever you need them, eliminating the worry of a dead battery.
Best Practices for Charging Your Hearing Aids
To maximize the benefits and lifespan of your rechargeable hearing aids, follow these simple guidelines:
- Always use the charging station: When your hearing aids are not in your ears, they should be in their charging station.
- Keep the charger plugged in: Ensure the charging station itself remains connected to a power source at all times.
- Avoid unplugged storage: Do not store your hearing aids in a charging station that is not plugged into an electrical outlet, as this can lead to battery degradation over time.
Understanding Your Hearing Aid Batteries
Modern hearing aid batteries are designed with advanced technology that prevents overcharging. They draw power only when needed, maintaining their charge without suffering from the "memory effect" or degradation commonly associated with older battery types.
For general information on caring for your hearing aids, you can refer to reputable audiology resources, such as those provided by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).
Quick Guide: Do's and Don'ts
Here’s a summary of best practices for charging your rechargeable hearing aids:
| Action | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Do keep charger plugged in | Ensures continuous readiness and optimizes battery health. |
| Do store hearing aids in charger | Prevents battery drain and extends the overall lifespan of the batteries. |
| Don't store in unplugged charger | Can lead to gradual battery degradation and reduced performance over time. |
| Don't worry about overcharging | Modern batteries are designed to stop charging once full, protecting their integrity. |
By following these recommendations, you can ensure your rechargeable hearing aids consistently perform at their best and enjoy a longer battery life.
