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Why is the sound distorted or intermittent?

  • Updated

In order to enhance our hearing and quality of life, hearing aids need to deliver sound to our ears—and it's frustrating when they don't. If the sound from your hearing aid is distorted or intermittent, don't worry. There's often an easy solution that you can do yourself at home. 

In this article, we'll discuss:

If the sound from your hearing aid is distorted or intermittent, try these general troubleshooting tips:

  • Trapped moisture may be clogging the hearing aid and distorting the sound. Try using a hearing aid dehumidifier overnight and try again.
  • Lower the volume.
  • Clean your ear canal with an ear rinse kit or by a professional.

For behind-the-ear (BTE) models:

  • Perform a whistle test:
    • Remove the tubing from the hearing aid body.
    • Turn the volume up to maximum and hold it near your ear.
    • If it whistles, your hearing aid is working. Wax or debris may be blocking the sound.
  • Check the tubing and tip for ear wax or debris. Clean the tubing and tip, and replace these parts if they appear worn. See information on cleaning and replacing parts.

For in-the-ear (ITE) models:

  • Perform a whistle test:
    • Remove the dome and wax guard.
    • Turn the volume up to maximum, cup the hearing aid in your hand, and hold it near your ear.
    • If it whistles, your hearing aid is working. Wax or debris may be blocking the sound.
  • Replace the wax guard. Clean the dome and replace it as well if it appears worn. See information on cleaning and replacing parts.

For rechargeable models:

  • Make sure the hearing aid is charged. If you are unsure, fully charge the hearing aid and turn it back on.
  • Rotate the volume dial (if applicable), in case dust or lint has collected in the hearing aid.
  • Check the battery contacts to be sure they are not corroded.

For non-rechargeable models:

  • Open and close the battery door and rotate the volume dial (if applicable), in case dust or lint has collected in the hearing aid.
  • Check the battery contacts to be sure they are not corroded.
  • Replace the battery with a fresh one (after removing the adhesive tab, wait 1 full minute for it to activate before inserting into the hearing aid).

 

Please see the Troubleshooting section of your User Manual for more information. If you are still having difficulty, please contact customer support. 

 

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