"WHY ISN'T MY BATTERY LASTING AS LONG AS IT USED TO?" OR "WHERE HAS ALL THE MERCURY GONE?"

 "WHY ISN'T MY BATTERY LASTING AS LONG AS IT USED TO?"

OR "WHERE HAS ALL THE MERCURY GONE?"

History of Mercury in Hearing Aid Batteries:

In the late 1970s, zinc air batteries were introduced and quickly replaced their predecessor, the mercuric oxide battery.  Zinc air batteries contained significantly less mercury, were superior in performance and were immediately more reliable.

Although, the development of zinc air batteries was an improvement they still contained added mercury.  In zinc air batteries, the mercury is fused with the zinc powder which prevents the battery cell from leakage or swelling, while activating the battery quickly.

Mercury is extremely harmful to the environment.  It can seep into the ground, via landfills, contaminating drinking water and food.  Exposure to mercury can result in contamination, deformities in offspring, permanent damage to the brain, and even death.  In 1996, legislation banned mercury from household alkaline batteries, but zinc air batteries were exempt until manufacturers could come up with an alternative.   

In June 2011, a number of states banned the selling or distribution of mercury containing batteries, including zinc air batteries.  Manufacturers have now removed mercury from hearing aid batteries to comply with the law.

Zinc Air Mercury-Free Batteries:

Without the added mercury, today's zinc air batteries need a longer time to fully activate, once the tab is removed.  They use oxygen as a source of power.  The battery ingredients begin to activate only when the tab is removed and air begins to enter the pinholes on the positive side of the battery.  As a result, it is recommended that you wait at least 2 minutes before using the battery, following the removal of the tab.  By waiting 2 minutes, the battery gets a big gulp of air which allows it to get a full charge, and can result in an extra day's worth of life.

Hearing aid batteries should be stored at room temperature, as heat can shorten their life.  There is no need to refrigerate them.  When carrying extra batteries be sure to place them in a "battery caddy" or case.  Batteries that are loose in a pocket or purse, near metal objects (such as coins) may short out when used.  

HEAT, HUMIDITY, AND HEARING AIDS

Protect your hearing aids from heat.  Never leave your hearing aids in a hot car or in direct sunlight.

Protect your hearing aids from moisture caused by high humidity.  Crackling or static sounds in your aid are symptoms of moisture.  This may be due to the aid getting wet, or even just from humidity in the air.  High humidity can cause moisture to collect in the hearing aid and/or ear mold tubing.  Even small amounts of moisture can have an effect on the sound quality of your hearing aid.  This moisture can cause corrosion to build up on the battery, the battery contacts, and  internal components.  To remove moisture from your aid, use dehumidifiers such as a Dri-Jar or a Dry and Store kit daily.  Both of these types of dehumidifiers are available at Hear Here.  Dri-Jars cost $12, and meet most moisture needs.  If your moisture problem is more severe, an electronic Dry and Store kit may be more appropriate.  Dry and Store kits cost $75, but can last a lifetime with proper care.