As winter approaches and Santa Barbara gets more rain, you may be wondering if it’s okay to wear your hearing aids outside on rainy days. Like many electronic devices, hearing aids are susceptible to water damage, so let’s discuss how to keep your precious devices safe in the elements.
How Does the Rain Affect Hearing Aids?
While many modern hearing aids have some degree of water resistance, no hearing aid is 100% waterproof. Moisture can cause damage to the electrical components, short-circuit wiring, corrode the battery or even shut the hearing aid down entirely.
There’s a myth that wet hearing aids can electrocute your ears; this is not true. There’s not enough electrical power in the small devices for that to happen.
Tips to Keep Rain Away from Your Hearing Aids
If you find yourself caught in the rain, protect your hearing aids by covering them up. You can use a hood, a hat or an umbrella quite easily, or cover your ears with your hands in a pinch. There are also waterproof hearing aid covers and sleeves available if you prefer a more discreet option.
It’s a good idea to keep rain contingencies accessible so you’re not surprised. For example, keep an extra jacket or umbrella in your car in case it starts raining while you’re out and about. Hearing aid covers are small and easy to transport, as well, so you can keep them in your purse or car to ensure you’re always prepared for inclement weather.
What to Do if Your Hearing Aids Get Wet
Despite all precautions, your hearing aids may still get wet. If this happens, dry them off immediately with a soft towel and then put them in a hearing aid drying box as soon as you’re home. If they get drenched, consider an electrical hearing aid dryer. If neither option is available to you, you can use uncooked rice to absorb moisture.
If you notice issues with sound quality or battery life after your hearing aids got wet, schedule a repair appointment with your hearing aid specialist. Call Hearing Services of Santa Barbara today to find out more about how we can help protect your hearing aids from moisture damage.