Advice · Hearing aids
How long do hearing aids last, and when should you replace them?
Most modern hearing aids last between five and seven years. Some last longer with good care, and others need replacing sooner. Daily care and handling make the biggest difference.
What affects how long hearing aids last?
Daily care is the biggest factor. Hearing aids sit in a warm, moist environment and are exposed to ear wax, skin oils and sweat. Devices that are cleaned regularly, stored properly overnight and kept away from moisture tend to last longer.
Handling matters too. Dropping hearing aids on hard floors, particularly bathroom tiles, is a common cause of damage. Removing and cleaning them over a soft surface helps prevent this.
Signs it is time to replace your hearing aids
- Sound quality has deteriorated despite cleaning and new domes or wax guards
- Repairs are needed more often than before
- Battery life has dropped significantly
- Your hearing has changed and the current settings no longer suit you
- The hearing aids are more than five years old and repairs are becoming costly
When repair is better than replacement
Many problems have simple fixes. Blocked speakers, worn domes and old wax guards are quick and inexpensive to replace. Larger repairs, such as replacing a receiver, are often worthwhile if the hearing aids are under five years old and otherwise in good condition. If something does not sound right, have the hearing aids checked at the clinic before assuming they need replacing.
When replacement makes more sense
Once hearing aids are more than five years old and need repeated repairs, replacement is often the better option. Newer hearing aids offer features such as rechargeable batteries, Bluetooth streaming and improved noise processing. The clinician will advise whether repair or replacement is the right choice.
Questions people ask
Common questions
How long do hearing aids last?
Most modern hearing aids last between five and seven years, depending on care, handling and how the wearer’s hearing changes.
Should I repair or replace my hearing aids?
Repair is often worthwhile for hearing aids under five years old in good condition. Older devices that need repeated repairs are usually better replaced.
How can I make my hearing aids last longer?
Clean them daily, store them properly overnight, keep them away from moisture and handle them over a soft surface.
Hearing aids not sounding right?
Book a review at our Chepstow clinic to check whether repair or replacement is best.