Batteries

[Auxyz]

Does anyone know about the aids that can be recharged overnight, eliminating need to replace batteries?

[Hidden]

Hi

Rechargeable options have been available from some manufacturers for many years however the rechargeable power cells become less effective and need replacing probably once a year.

More recently there has been a bug marketing push by initially Phonak and Sivantos (Siemens) on their newest lithium ion rechargeable options in various guises, these generally are only available on their latest technology platforms which means they are currently at the top end of the price range.

Only time will tell if there are any major issues/drawbacks with these products, currently I believe they are only available in over the ear styles (BTE, RIC) and not in an in the ear style, this is most likely to do with the required size of the power cell.

For some people they are a real benefit especially with dexterity issues but for others the premium price may well out weigh those benefits.

The manufacturer's reason behind rechargeable options are more to do with current battery technology holding back the development of new tech, the advantage of recharging is the aids can in theory use all of their power in a 24hr cycle so can therefore do more things, compared to traditional zinc air batteries where you would need to change the battery everyday.

As always consider your options carefully and consider what you need from your hearing aids. If you think the rechargeable option is what you need then have a look around and get some prices, if the provider is not prepared to give you a quote on price then really consider is this the business you want to deal with.

Good luck with whatever you decide.

David

[Melita17]

Hi Auxyz, type in 'rechargeable hearing aids' into Ebay and you'll see plenty of aids that can be charged overnight.

[Stokesie]

Previous attempts at rechargeable aids were useless - essentially because the useful life of a charged pack was only 6-7 hours!

However, look at the rechargeable aids from Swiss manufacturer Phonak on the link below.

phonak.com/uk/en/about-us/r...

They're not cheap. However you will get the best deals from the Outside Clinic on 0800 85 44 77.