Sometimes, you may need to replace certain parts of your hearing aid, either through wear and tear or because you’ve lost a piece while you were taking it apart, for example. Some hearing aids have parts that are specific to the type of device, so we’ve put together a little list of different hearing aid accessories and what device they’re best used for, as well as top tips on maintenance so you can keep them working for longer.
Hearing aid tubes
Hearing aid tubes are part of a behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aid that sits behind your ear and connects the ear mould to the soft tip that goes into the opening of your ear.
How to clean hearing aid tubes
Remove the ear mould and clean the tubing with water and dry overnight. Replace the tubing at least once a month if it becomes discoloured or blocked.
Hearing aid domes
A hearing aid dome is a small plastic piece of your hearing aid that goes in the ear, typically made of silicone.
A correctly fitted dome can make a huge difference in both comfort and quality while wearing your hearing aids. So if you ever feel uncomfortable or you have any issues with their fit, book an appointment to see one of our hearing experts and we can check the fit of the dome for you.
Open style hearing aid dome
- Helps to stop what’s called the occlusion effect – which creates a hollow-like sound as if you’ve put your fingers in your ears while talking.
- Still receives some sound through the ear, so can sound more natural for some people.
Closed style hearing aid dome
- Reduces sound from outside the hearing aid to further boost the sound level.
- Often better for people with more pronounced hearing loss.
How often should you change hearing aid domes?
Hearing aid domes are removable and should be changed at least once a month. If you’re unsure how to do this, book an appointment and someone will be able to show you how to do this.
What is the occlusion effect?
If you hear a hollow booming sound when you speak, you may be experiencing an occlusion effect. When you speak, the bone conducts the sound to reach the inner ear. Hearing aids trap this sound in the ear canal and it bounces off, amplifying the sensation of the sound. Vents in the dome of your hearing aid can help to reduce this
Hearing loops
Hearing loop systems are installed in busy or difficult listening situations, like cinemas and public buildings, to help you hear more clearly. Modern hearing aids are designed to pick up sound from loop systems if they have the loop active on them, and some phones also have an available loop service too.
How do hearing loops work?
A hearing loop is a piece of wire installed around the perimeter of a room or in a specific area (e.g. underneath a service counter at the supermarket) that acts as an amplifier for sounds in that area. These sounds are then picked up by a receiver in your hearing aid, called the telecoil.
Your audiologist will tell you if this is available on your hearing aid. If it is, they’ll be able to add a program to your hearing aids so that whenever you’re somewhere where you see a loop setting you can change to this program. They're able to set it so you can have a balance between hearing through your hearing aid microphones and the loop at the same time.
Can all hearing aids connect to a hearing loop system?
While most hearing aids have the option available, completely-in-canal, invisible-in-canal and some smaller receivers-in-the-canal hearing aids don’t have the space for a telecoil.
If you’re unsure if your hearing aids have a loop setting, contact your local store and speak to a hearing expert. They’ll be able to confirm if it does and if it’s activated for you.
When are hearing loops useful?
They are especially helpful in busy public places, where your hearing aid might pick up a lot of ambient sounds as well as the ones you need to hear, causing you to strain to hear spoken words, for example.
Since 2010, businesses and other organisations are legally required to install hearing loop systems in their premises, and most places will have a sign to indicate that a hearing loop system is available, usually on the door as you enter or by the counter.
Can you install hearing loops at home?
Yes, hearing loops installed at home can help with conversations or watching television. You can buy them from specific suppliers who can guide you on the right size and model for your home. They usually cost between £100-£200.
Always remember to turn your hearing aids back to a normal program mode when you’re out of range from a loop service.
Hearing aid dehumidifier
Hearing aid dehumidifiers help to prevent moisture build-up on your hearing aid. You may need one if you spend a lot of time outdoors or if you perspire heavily.
How do you use a hearing aid dehumidifier?
To use a hearing aid dehumidifier, place your hearing aid (with batteries in) inside the dehumidifier (usually a box) overnight to extract moisture. If you’d like a dehumidifier for your hearing aids, get in touch with your local store to talk about your options.
Learn more about hearing aids
To learn more about hearing aids, including the different types and their benefits, explore our hearing aids hub.
Notice a change in your hearing? You can also check your hearing at home using our free online hearing test.
