We all take the time to bring our cars in for tire and fluid changes because we know that without these regular appointments, our vehicles may require more serious (and costly) repairs down the road.

Similarly, hearing aids function best when serviced at least once every three to six months.

That’s why at Arnold Hearing Centres, we prioritize ongoing care and encourage our clients to come in regularly for the maintenance we term “Clean and Checks.”

What Does a Clean and Check Entail?

At your appointment, we will clean and assess the condition of your devices.

If you haven’t been in for a servicing for some time, it’s never too late to start again.

Most of what is done during these appointments is behind the scenes, so what does it include?

1. Listening check

Your hearing care provider will begin by performing a listening check by using an instrument called a listening tube. This tool allows us to attach a covered silicone end to the aid and a tube for the provider to listen through.

This helps us detect any signs of weakness, distortion or static from the device. Many issues can be addressed in the clinic, but if a defect is detected in any part(s), we ensure it is sent away for repair.

2. Cleaning

Your hearing care provider will then proceed to clean and disinfect the device. This includes replacing the dome (silicone end of the hearing aid), the wax protection system and the tubing, if applicable.

Normal wear and tear are expected, and we ensure everything is replaced as needed. At this time, we will also assess the condition of your speaker unit. Unfortunately, wax can bypass the wax protection system, leading to weakened sound or, in some cases, no sound at all.

In such cases, we can remove any debris from the speaker by using a hearing aid-specific micro-suction tool.

3. Microphone assessment

The microphones of your hearing aid are located on the top of the device behind your ear or on the side facing out of the ear for those wearing custom-fit styles. These tiny openings capture sound and send it to the circuitry of the aid to begin the amplification process. If these are blocked with debris, such as dust, skin cells or cerumen, your hearing will be impaired.

Debris can also be removed from the microphones by using the micro-suction tool or a brush. Additionally, moisture from the atmosphere or sweat can collect in these microphone ports. Any amount above 0.5 µL is considered excessive. If your devices are not waterproof, this moisture can eventually damage the microphones. These parts are not replaceable in the clinic, so it is imperative that moisture is addressed promptly.

Your hearing care practitioner will run the aids through a drying chamber designed specifically for removing very small amounts of moisture. As warmer months approach, more moisture is expected, so it is best to schedule at least one cleaning appointment during the summer.

4. Checking in

When the hearing aids have been serviced and are functioning correctly, it’s time for us to touch base with you. We will ensure you have all the supplies necessary for daily use of the devices, such as batteries, wax guards, domes and even desiccant pucks, for moisture removal.

Additionally, your hearing care practitioner will check a few important dates, including your warranty expiry. We remind you when your warranty is nearing its end. It is in your best interest to have the devices checked before the warranty expires to ensure you get the most out of them.

We can also discuss your ongoing care. If you feel that your hearing has changed or have any questions, we can book an appointment to address any concerns you may have.

5. Booking your next appointment

Before you leave, we highly recommend booking your next servicing appointment. Even though it may be three to six months before you need this service again, we want to ensure it is scheduled before you leave. This ensures that your maintenance routine is consistent, and we keep track of your ongoing care.

By completing all the steps listed above, we can help prevent the need for more extensive repairs. The last thing we want is for your devices to stop working when you need them most.

If you haven’t been in for maintenance for some time and are looking to get back on track, please give your corresponding office a call or email so that we can assist you with booking an appointment. If you haven’t been to Arnold Hearing Centres but are looking to transfer your care to us, or to start anew, please contact your preferred location listed below.