Signs That Your Hearing Aids Need Repair

Hearing aids are susceptible to dirt, moisture, and other contaminants because they are made up of fragile electrical components.

Signs That Your Hearing Aids Need Repair

by Dr. Kevin Ivory

Hearing aids have never been more discreet or powerful. And it's no surprise that those with hearing loss often come to rely on them in practically every situation. They are, however, susceptible to dirt, moisture, and other contaminants because they are made up of fragile electrical components.

Whether you've been a hearing aid user for a long time or have only recently acquired your first pair, there are some common warning signs that your hearing aids may soon need a repair. If you're wondering if your hearing aids need repairing, here's what to look out for. 

Signs that your hearing aids need to be repaired

They don't turn on anymore. The fact that your hearing aids have ceased working is the first thing to look out for. This suggests a big issue and will need to be looked at by a professional. 

You hear static when using your hearing aids. If you experience this issue, there may be a moisture build-up, which means you'll need to get them repaired. Your hearing professional is the best choice to correct the problem and guide you to avoid it happening again in the future. It's a common problem, but one that can be avoided in most cases.

They're not loud enough. If the volume on your hearing aids keeps dropping, even though you know they're turned up all the way, it's a sign that they need to be repaired. It could be a problem with the device or a problem with your hearing, but you'll have to consult with a hearing professional to figure out which is the case. When the volume drops even though the device is turned up to the max, it usually signifies that the user's hearing needs have changed.

There is damage to the outer shell. Is there any damage to your hearing aids that you can see? If you drop your hearing aids frequently or hit them against something by accident, they can crack and get damaged. A professional will examine anything that is twisted, scraped, broken, or otherwise damaged. Although it's not always possible to determine the actual amount of the damage until a specialist has examined them, these physical symptoms would strongly suggest that the hearing aids require repair.

You notice strange noises. There could be an issue with the levels of your microphone. Even if this has never happened before, you may begin to hear noises coming through your hearing aids. 


These are just a few indications of hearing aid deterioration, and if you observe anything similar, you should schedule an appointment with your audiologist.

What should you do if your hearing aid malfunctions?


Before calling us for a repair, make sure you've followed the recommendations below.

  • Check that the hearing aid is turned on: This seems like a no-brainer, but it's easy to overlook, especially if you're new to hearing aids.
  • Check the volume level: Although it may seem elementary, it's surprisingly common for the volume to be turned down by accident.
  • Examine the battery: Be sure the batteries are correctly placed and tested, or try new ones to ensure they aren't the source of the problem.
  • Inspect the tubing: If you have a BTE (behind the ear) hearing aid, you may require a replacement tube from time to time. If the tube becomes worn or broken, it must be replaced.

Leave it to us if all else fails.

If you are unable to repair the hearing aid system yourself, please get in touch with us. We can perform cleaning and maintenance for you and can establish whether there is a problem. We also offer several processes that might assist you in getting the most out of your hearing aid. If we are unable to repair it, we will know someone who will. If a warranty covers your hearing aid, the cost of replacing it is likely to be small. If your hearing aid needs tubing replacement or deep cleaning, it is inexpensive and can be done on-site.

If we have to mail it out and you don't have a warranty on the hearing aid, the cost will be higher. Hearing aids are returned for replacement for various reasons, including structural flaws (cracked or missing parts) and sound component failure. Surprisingly, rebuilding and repairing the external shell is more expensive than repairing and replacing inside components.

See us if you're having problems with your hearing aid. Whether you purchased the device from us or not, our team will do everything possible to get it back up and running. Why not make an appointment with us right now?


Written by
Reviewed by
Dr. Kevin H. Ivory
Audiologist & University Instructor
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Dr. Kevin Ivory, Au.D., CCC-A received his Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) Degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He then went on to earn his Doctor of Audiology degree from Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, one of the top 10 audiology residential programs in the country.

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