Hearing Aid Batteries in Wilmington & Southport, NC
Hearing aid batteries are a small but essential part of your hearing health routine. Whether your devices use traditional disposable zinc-air batteries or a modern rechargeable system, understanding how to manage your hearing aid’s power supply ensures you’re never caught without sound at the wrong moment.
At Excel Audiology in Wilmington & Southport, NC, Dr. Jason Rickman and our team are happy to answer any questions about batteries, help you switch to a rechargeable system, or assist with any power-related issues your hearing aids are experiencing.
Disposable Zinc-Air Hearing Aid Batteries
Traditional hearing aids use zinc-air batteries — small, round button cells that are activated by air when the protective sticker tab is removed. They are available in four standard sizes, color-coded for easy identification:
| Color | Size | Typical Hearing Aid Use |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow | Size 10 | CIC, IIC (completely/invisible-in-canal) |
| Brown | Size 312 | RIC/RITE, smaller ITE devices |
| Orange | Size 13 | BTE, larger ITE, power devices |
| Blue | Size 675 | Power BTEs, cochlear implant processors |
How Long Do Zinc-Air Batteries Last?
Battery life depends on the size of the battery, the power demands of the hearing aid, and daily wear time. General estimates:
- Size 10 — 3 to 7 days
- Size 312 — 3 to 10 days
- Size 13 — 6 to 14 days
- Size 675 — 9 to 20 days
Factors that reduce battery life include Bluetooth streaming, tinnitus masking programs, severe hearing loss requiring higher amplification, and high humidity environments — which is worth noting for patients in coastal North Carolina.
Tips for Getting the Most from Disposable Batteries
- Wait 1–2 minutes after removing the tab before inserting the battery — this allows air to fully activate the zinc, extending battery life by up to 80%
- Store batteries at room temperature — avoid refrigerating them, as condensation can affect performance
- Keep batteries away from keys and coins — metal contact can short-circuit and drain batteries
- Open the battery door at night — when hearing aids are not in use, opening the battery door stops current draw and lets moisture escape
- Dispose of used batteries safely — zinc-air batteries should not be swallowed; keep them away from children and pets, as they are a serious choking and poisoning hazard
- Check the expiration date — fresh batteries perform better; buy in reasonable quantities and rotate stock
Rechargeable Hearing Aids
Rechargeable hearing aid technology has advanced dramatically in recent years and is now the preferred option for the majority of new hearing aid users. Rather than swapping out small batteries every few days, rechargeable hearing aids are placed in a charging case each night — much like a smartphone — and are ready to go in the morning.
Benefits of Rechargeable Hearing Aids
Convenience
No more purchasing, carrying, or changing tiny batteries. Simply charge overnight and wear all day.
Full-Day Power
Most modern rechargeable hearing aids deliver 16–30 hours of use per charge, depending on the model and streaming usage. This covers a full waking day for most users.
Cost Savings over Time
While rechargeable devices may have a higher initial cost, the elimination of ongoing battery purchases reduces long-term expenses.
Better for Dexterity Challenges
For patients who find small battery tabs difficult to handle, rechargeable systems eliminate that challenge entirely.
Environmental Benefit
Significantly reduces the number of batteries disposed of over the lifespan of the device.
Rechargeable Charging Options
Different manufacturers offer different charging solutions:
Standard Charging Cases
Place hearing aids in the case overnight; a full charge takes approximately 3–4 hours.
Portable Charging Cases
Built-in battery bank allows charging on the go without access to a power outlet — ideal for travel.
Dry and Charge Cases
Combine overnight drying (important in humid climates) with battery charging in a single unit.
What to Know About Rechargeable Batteries
The lithium-ion batteries in rechargeable hearing aids are sealed inside the device and are not user-replaceable. Over time — typically 4–5 years — the battery’s capacity may diminish. When this occurs, the manufacturer can replace the battery or the device may be due for an upgrade. Dr. Rickman can advise you on where your devices stand and what options make the most sense.
Disposable vs. Rechargeable — Which Is Right for You?
| Feature | Disposable | Rechargeable |
|---|---|---|
| Daily convenience | Must carry/replace batteries | Charge overnight, ready in morning |
| Dexterity requirements | Small batteries can be challenging | Easier — just place in charging case |
| Backup power | Easy — carry spare batteries | Limited — need charger access |
| Travel | Bring extra batteries | Portable charging case recommended |
| Long-term cost | Ongoing battery expense | Higher upfront, lower ongoing cost |
| Environmental impact | Higher (disposable batteries) | Lower |
For most patients today, Dr. Rickman recommends rechargeable systems for their convenience, reliability, and ease of use — particularly for older adults or anyone who finds small battery management challenging. However, disposable batteries remain the right choice for certain lifestyles and specific hearing aid models.
Battery-Related Troubleshooting
My Hearing Aid Stopped Working Suddenly
The most common cause is a dead battery. Try replacing or recharging before assuming a device malfunction.
My Batteries Are Draining Faster Than Expected
Check whether Bluetooth streaming is being used heavily (this significantly increases power consumption). Also consider whether a rechargeable upgrade might be a better fit for your usage pattern.
My Rechargeable Hearing Aid Isn’t Holding a Charge Like It Used To
Rechargeable battery capacity naturally diminishes over time, typically after 4–5 years of use. Contact us to assess whether a battery replacement or device upgrade is appropriate.
If You or a Child Swallows a Battery
This is a medical emergency. Call Poison Control (1-800-222-1222) or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. Button batteries can cause serious internal injury within hours.
Request your appointment today!
- Wilmington: (910) 399-3075
- Southport: (910) 387-9015
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy hearing aid batteries?
Zinc-air batteries are available at pharmacies, big-box stores, and online. We also carry batteries at our Excel Audiology offices. Buying in bulk can reduce per-battery cost, but check expiration dates and don’t overbuy.
Can I use any size 312 battery in my hearing aid?
Yes — zinc-air batteries are standardized across manufacturers. Any quality size 312 battery will work in a hearing aid that uses that size, regardless of brand.
How do I know when my battery is about to die?
Most hearing aids will produce a series of low-pitched beeps or a voice alert when the battery is running low. Check your device’s manual for the specific low-battery signal.
Can I switch my hearing aids from disposable to rechargeable?
In most cases, no — rechargeable and disposable systems use fundamentally different hardware. Switching typically means upgrading to a new pair of hearing aids. We’re happy to discuss whether now is a good time to make that transition.
Do rechargeable hearing aids work during a power outage?
Yes — as long as they are charged, rechargeable hearing aids will work normally regardless of grid power. Keeping a portable charging case on hand provides additional independence from wall power.