Let me get it out there first: ALL HEARING AIDS WILL BREAK DOWN AT SOME STAGE; NO MATTER OF THE BRAND OR LEVEL OF TECHNOLOGY.
Secondly; Hearing Care Professionals do not make the hearing aids and we are not technicians qualified in breaking open the shells of these things open and fixing them at a technical / manufacturers level, That is the role of the manufacturers. Hearing care professionals assess your hearing then purchase the devices from the manufacturer and program them to your prescriptive fitting. We can perform basic diagnostic and basic repairs only. his is true for 99% of Hearing clinics you will visit in Australia. The last Hearing Aid technician that repaired Hearing Aids in clinic stopped working in Bundaberg close to 10 years ago now.
Now that is out of the way we can begin 🙂
Deciding between hearing aid repair or replacement depends on device age, technological advancements, repair history, and changing hearing needs for optimal function. In our part of the world where when it gets hot humidity and sweat can significantly affect the efficiency and life span of the hearing aid – (sweat is just salt and water. Hearing aids are just basically a small computer and computers don’t like salt and water. Unfortunately, these are touching your skin all day so the chance of sweat seeping into your hearing aids are much higher. As the sweat dries up inside the devices it leaves salt and over time it can erode the internal processing chips to a point where it just does not work as efficiently anymore).
At AIM Hearing, we often help clients decide whether to repair or replace their hearing aids. This decision impacts both your hearing health and your finances. You rely on these devices daily, and making the right choice ensures you maintain optimal hearing without unnecessary expense. If you are a client under the Hearing Services Program (Whether a Pensioner or DVA Client) a voucher is set for every 5 years and a refit can only be performed under the program when strict refitting guidelines (ECR’s) have been met and approval given by the Department.
Most hearing aid issues – such as feedback, diminished sound quality, or physical damage—can often be resolved through repairs. Our team are skilled at diagnosing and fixing common problems, potentially extending the life of your devices. However, there comes a point when replacement becomes the better option, especially with the technological advancements in newer models.
Assessing Hearing Aid Performance
When your hearing aids aren’t functioning properly, Alan at AIM Hearing can help evaluate their performance to determine if repair or replacement is needed.
Identifying Common Issues
Feedback or Whistling Sounds: This could indicate an ill-fitting hearing aid or wax buildup in your ear canal Distorted or Unclear Sound: Sound quality should be consistent; if not, internal components may be damaged Intermittent Function: If your hearing aids cut in and out, there could be a connection issue Physical Damage: Visible cracks or damage can impact functionality
Frequency of Repairs
First-Time Repair: If this is your first repair and the device is within warranty, it’s typically worth repairing Multiple Repairs: If you’re frequently bringing your hearing aids in for repair, it might be more cost-effective to consider replacement
Factors Influencing Repair or Replacement
Several key factors influence whether repair or replacement is your best option.
Age of the Hearing Aid
Hearing aids typically have a lifespan of about 5 to 7 years when well maintained. If your devices are approaching or have surpassed this age range, repairs may only offer a short-term solution. We can help you assess whether the age of your hearing aids makes repair or replacement more appropriate for your situation.
Advancements in Technology
Hearing Aid Technology has advanced significantly in recent years. The latest models from manufacturers we work with offer impressive features:
Current hearing aids now incorporated with Artificial Intelligence (Ai), Deep Neural Network processing and Bluetooth Auracast, an upgrade might significantly improve your hearing experience, especially in challenging listening environments.
In my opinion upgrading every time there is a technology jump is unwise as you may not notice a massive difference. I find clients that upgrade every 2nd evolution of technology notice a significant difference and improvement.
Cost Considerations
Our team will help you compare the cost of repairing your current hearing aids against purchasing new ones. We’ll consider:
Whether your current hearing aids are still meeting your prescription needs The potential need for future repairs Whether insurance or other financial assistance might help with new purchases The long-term value of improved technology
When we program hearing aids at AIM Hearing, we use Real Ear Measurements to verify they’re meeting your prescription targets. If your current devices can’t be programmed to match your current hearing needs, replacement may be necessary regardless of repair costs.
When to Repair
In many cases, repairing your hearing aids is the most practical solution.
Minor Malfunctions
Our team can address many common issues:
Wax buildup in the receiver: Often causes reduced volume or sound quality Battery door problems: We stock replacement parts for many models Feedback or whistling sounds: Can often be fixed by adjusting the fit or replacing the earmold Blocked sound outlet or microphone port: Our cleaning tools can restore functionality Damaged receiver wires: We maintain a supply of receiver wires from many different manufacturers
For these types of issues, repairs are usually quick, affordable, and sufficient to restore your hearing aids to proper working order.
Budget Constraints
Repair costs: Typically, much lower than purchasing new hearing aids Warranty coverage: If your hearing aids are still under warranty, repairs may be covered Loaner devices: If we need to send your hearing aids to the manufacturer, we can provide loaner devices programmed to your settings
At AIM hearing, we understand that hearing aids are a significant investment. Our team works with you to find the most cost-effective solution that doesn’t compromise your hearing.
When to Replace
In certain situations, replacing your hearing aids becomes the more practical choice.
Irreparable Damage
Some damage is beyond repair:
Severe moisture damage: Though our commercial-grade Redux dehydration and Med-Rx Ultra Vac+ equipment can often reverse moisture damage, some cases are too severe Crushed devices: If your hearing aids have been stepped on or crushed, the internal components may be too damaged to function Manufacturer discontinued support: If the manufacturer no longer supports your model with parts or software
Alan will give you an honest assessment of whether repair is possible or if replacement is necessary.
Changes in Hearing Needs
If your hearing has changed significantly since your initial fitting, your current devices may no longer provide adequate amplification:
A new comprehensive hearing evaluation may show that your hearing needs have evolved Using Real Ear Measurements, we can determine if your current devices can be reprogrammed to meet your new prescription targets If your devices can’t provide enough power for your current hearing loss, replacement becomes necessary
Lifestyle Changes
Your life may have changed since you got your current hearing aids:
If you’ve become more active: Newer models offer better moisture resistance and durability If you use more technology: Modern hearing aids provide better connectivity with smartphones and other devices If you’re in noisier environments: Advanced noise reduction and speech enhancement features in newer models may significantly improve your experience
Making the Right Choice for Your Hearing
we help you make informed decisions about your hearing healthcare. we will:
Perform a comprehensive diagnostic assessment of your hearing aids Evaluate your current hearing needs with appropriate testing Discuss the pros and cons of repair versus replacement in your specific situation Provide clear information about costs and expected outcomes Support whatever decision best meets your hearing needs and financial situation
If repair is the right choice, our team will work efficiently to fix your devices, often on the same day. If replacement is better, we’ll guide you through the selection process and ensure your new hearing aids are properly fitted using our comprehensive best practice protocols, including Real Ear Measurements.
Don’t struggle with underperforming hearing aids. Contact AIM Hearing, Bundaberg’s longest running 100% locally owned and independent hearing car clinic on (07) 41531317 to schedule an evaluation. We’ll help you determine whether repair or replacement is the best solution for your hearing needs.