Energy Sources in Hearing Aids: Battery-Powered and Rechargeable Systems

The energy sources used in hearing aids have a significant impact on the device’s performance, ease of use and cost. Nowadays the energy sources of hearing aids are generally encountered in the form of battery-powered or rechargeable systems.

Hello everyone!

In this article, I will address the question that hearing aid users often ask when choosing a device at our hearing aid center: “Should I prefer a battery-powered hearing aid or a rechargeable one?” My aim is to provide a clearer answer by comparing the two types of power sources. I wish you a pleasant reading.

Rechargeable Hearing Aids:

Rechargeable hearing aids typically use lithium-ion batteries to provide energy. These devices are becoming increasingly popular due to the advantages offered by rechargeable batteries and the comfort provided by modern technology.

(Lithium-ion batteries are widely used not only in hearing aid technology but also in many areas such as smartphones, tablets, electric cars, thanks to their high energy density, lightweight, fast charging features and long lifetimes.)

Advantages:

• Long battery life: Lithium-ion batteries can provide energy for up to 24 hours based on the user’s daily usage. (For example, Signia’s Motion Charge & Go hearing aids provide up to 26 hours of energy.)
• Eco-friendly: Rechargeable batteries create less waste compared to disposable batteries making them more environmentally friendly.
• Ease of use: Rechargeable hearing aids eliminate the need for users to change batteries, and the charging time for the hearing aid is approximately 3–4 hours. Rechargeable hearing aids may be a more practical option, especially for elderly, physically disabled users, and children.
• Lower long-term costs: Due to the long lifespan of rechargeable batteries, they offer lower long-term costs compared to zinc batteries.
• Technology and features: Rechargeable hearing aids generally have more advanced technologies and features than battery-powered hearing aids.
• Water resistance: Rechargeable hearing aids are more water-resistant than battery-powered hearing aids since they don’t have a battery door.

Disadvantages:

• High initial cost: Rechargeable hearing aids are initially more expensive than devices that use zinc batteries. Users also need to purchase an appropriate charging device along with their hearing aids.
• Decreased battery life over time: Like all rechargeable batteries, the capacity of lithium-ion batteries decreases over time and replacement may be necessary.

Battery-Powered Hearing Aids:

Zinc air batteries which have been a preferred and widely used energy source for many years, are still a popular option for hearing aid users due to their lower initial cost and more extensive range of hearing aid options.

(Zinc air batteries produce energy from the chemical reaction of zinc and oxygen. The air reacts with the zinc inside the battery, providing energy. When the protective layer on the battery is removed, the battery comes into contact with air and starts to produce energy.)

Advantages:

• Low initial cost: Battery-powered hearing aids have a lower initial cost compared to rechargeable models. Social Security Institution (SGK) in Turkey also provides battery support for state-reported hearing aid users once a year (104 batteries). However, this amount is often insufficient depending on the device model and usage time.
• Wide range of model options: Battery-powered hearing aids can better meet users’ needs by offering more model and feature options.
• Travel-friendly: Battery-powered hearing aids may be more practical for travel as they eliminate the need to carry a charging device.

Disadvantages:

• Low battery life: Zinc air batteries typically last between a few days to a week and need to be frequently replaced. (As the technological features of hearing aids increase, they consume more battery power.)
• Battery replacement hassle: The need for users to regularly change batteries can become cumbersome over time.
• High long-term cost: Since zinc air batteries need to be constantly replaced, their long-term cost is higher than rechargeable hearing aids.
• Technical support: Battery-powered hearing aids have a battery door section that can require repair due to usage.

In summary, the most suitable hearing aid should be chosen by considering the user’s lifestyle, needs, expectations, and budget. Since each user is different, determining the best option through personal evaluations and trials can be helpful.