It is well known that electrical devices are negatively impacted by being wet. What many people don’t realize is that this includes hearing aids. Hearing aids contain tiny electrical components that can be easily damaged by moisture, which can come in many forms. They don’t have to be submerged in a swimming pool to necessitate drying. Sweat, humidity, and moisture collected from going about daily tasks can all damage hearing aids. And, considering how much money hearing aids or hearing aid repair can cost, why would anyone risk damaging them? This article will explore what hearing aid dryers are and how to choose the best one.
What Is a Hearing Aid Dryer?
Hearing aid dryers come in multiple varieties and types. In general, there are non-electric dryers and electric dryers, but the vast majority of hearing aid dryers, regardless of type, will come in the form of a small box (like a jewelry box) where the hearing aids are placed to be dried.
Non-electric drying boxes can contain various desiccants (materials that absorb moisture) to dry the hearing aids. The advantage of non-electric boxes is that they do not require a power source and are easy to use. However, because the drying relies on absorbent materials, this type of hearing aid dryer can be slower than the electronic versions.
Electronic hearing aid dryers, in contrast, connect to a power source and use heat or a fan to dry the hearing aids. Although the learning curve may be slightly steeper with this type of dryer, and it requires a power source, there are some benefits too. With some of the electric dryers, not only does the power source run the drying unit, but it can simultaneously charge the hearing aids as well, offering a convenient way to dry and charge hearing aids with one device in one location.
How to Choose the Right Hearing Aid Dryer
People should consider many factors when deciding which type of hearing aid dryer to purchase:
- How much humidity are the hearing aids exposed to day to day? The frequency the dryer will be used is an important factor. Dryers that dry especially quickly can be useful in particularly humid climates or for those who have lifestyles that cause them to sweat often while wearing their hearing aids. Having a quick-drying unit facilitates repeated uses throughout the day or week. For those who don’t use their hearing aids often, this may be less of a consideration.
- Does the user have any difficulty pressing small buttons due to arthritis or other conditions? Different dryers will have different displays and control units. So if someone struggles with managing small buttons, they can opt for a dryer that has a simple one-touch open and close door.
- Is the user often away from home? The ease with which the user can find a power source can greatly affect which dryer they buy. If they are frequently on the go or traveling and cannot rely on always having an outlet nearby, this may factor into their decision. They may need a non-electric drying box or an electric box that needs to be used less frequently.
- Do they have a history of ear infections? Certain dryers contain germicidal elements in addition to the drying functions to ensure that the hearing aids are clean and pose a minimal risk of causing infection. If a person is particularly susceptible to infection, has a history of infections from their hearing aids, or simply prefers the comfort of knowing that the germicidal element is present, this may be an option to consider.
How Are Hearing Aid Dryers Operated?
The specifics for how to use a hearing aid dryer will vary from model to model. In general, it will involve placing the hearing aids inside of the drying box and then initiating drying depending on the type of dryer. This could be done automatically by the absorbent materials when the box is closed in the case of non-electric kinds or need to be done manually if it is the electric version.
Sonora Hearing is here to help guide hearing aid users through the process of choosing, buying, and using a hearing aid dryer. If you or a loved one have hearing aid damage caused by moisture or simply want to learn more about hearing aid dryers from professional Audiologists, contact Sonora Hearing at (520) 881-8740 today to speak with a professional to guide you through the process of choosing a dryer that is perfect for you.