It’s getting HOT outside!  The Midwest is in the middle of a sweltering heat wave with 6 more weeks of summer to go. And along with the heat wave we have high humidity.

While most of us are inside trying to stay cool, we must still get outside to go to work, doctor’s appointments or to run errands.  And for those unlucky ones who have to work outside – well, we feel for you!

So what does the heat and humidity have to do with hearing devices?  Hearing devices are mechanical products made up of microphones, speakers, wires and computer chips that are susceptible to sweat and moisture.  Newer hearing devices are moisture resistant, however prolonged or persistent exposure to moisture or heavy sweat or high humidity will often result in weak or intermittent hearing devices.  When microphones accumulate moisture, they become weak or intermittent then shut down and the hearing devices must be sent in for repair. Since we can’t sit inside all day staying cool, how do we prevent moisture related repairs?

Remove hearing devices when working outside in the summer

If you are working outside in the garden or field and will not be communicating with people around you, we recommend removing your hearing devices and leaving them inside your home if you will be sweating profusely while working.

Cover your hearing devices

If removing your hearing devices is not an option, speak with your hearing provider about Ear Gear.  Ear Gear is a neoprene cover that fits over the back of behind-the-ear and receiver-in-the-ear hearing devices.  Ear Gear is proven to protect the hearing devices from moisture and dirt/debris without compromising sound quality.  Ear Gear works best for individuals with mild to moderate or intermittent sweat.   The covers are hand washable and economical at a price of $25/pair.

Use a hearing aid dehumidifier/dryer

For those individuals who work outside on a daily basis and/or sweat heavily on a consistent basis, a hearing aid dehumidifier is the best solution to reduce moisture related repairs.  The hearing devices are placed into the dehumidifier nightly and the dehumidifier works overnight to remove moisture from the devices.  They work very well and are an exceptional tool in reducing moisture related compares.  The Dry and Store Zephyr is $75 and requires the use of dry bricks, costing about $15 every 6 months.  As we move through the dog days of summer and what is sure to be another heat wave right around the corner, we encourage you to think about protecting your hearing devices from moisture.  While we can’t all lay on ice to stay cool, we can protect our hearing devices and keep them performing their best! Give us a call if you have questions or if you would like to purchase one of the products discussed here today. Do you have any tips or tricks to keep your hearing aids in tip top shape? Comment below about how you beat the heat.