Hearing Aids Clicking Sound

04 September, 2017 Gary Hill

Do your hearing aids make clicking sounds? If so, this blog post explains what causes them to make a 'clicking' noise and how to manage the problem.

Why hearing aids make a clicking sound?

Hearing aids consist of small components and complex electronic equipment. They are made to be reliable, durable, efficient and easy to use. However, users sometimes complain about a ‘click click click’ sound that their hearing aids produce when worn. This could be from heat, humidity, faulty receiver, loose battery connection, etc. Therefore, special care is needed to ensure optimal performance. Below are described the causes of such sounds and suggestions for possible remedies.

What causes a hearing aid to make a clicking sound?

1. Moisture: Moisture and dampness can damage the electronic parts within your hearing aid. Damage to the circuitry may occur while showering with hearing aids on or due to exposure to rain. Other causes include perspiration inside or around the ears. Before fitting your hearing aids, open the battery case to let the air circulate for a long period of time, for example during the night while you sleep. If moisture is still present, wipe the battery using an anti-moisture kit. Your audiologist can suggest a special drying kit for your hearing aid.

Do not place your hearing aids into the oven or microwave in order to dry them.
Do not expose your hearing aids to direct sunlight and do not leave them in steam baths.

2. Physical damage: Clicking sounds may occur if your hearing aids have been dropped and damaged. To avoid any damage, it is good to leave your hearing aids on a flat and soft surface or in their original housing when you are not using them. In addition, damage may be caused by wax that is produced by your ear canal. The wax may block the hearing aid receiver that is located inside your ear. This occurs particularly with ITE (In-The-Ear) models. Most ITE hearing aids are provided with a filter that prevents wax from penetrating the device. The wax protection system inside your hearing aids cleans away accumulated cerumen. A hearing care professional can explain how this wax protection system works, and how to replace it. 3. Aerosols: Direct contact with perfume, sun lotion, hairspray, insect repellent and cosmetics can damage your hearing aid. Always take off the hearing aid prior to applying those products. Additionally, let the products dry before fitting the hearing aid again. Always make sure that your hands are dry before refitting the device. 4. Poorly-fitted device: Clicking or whistling sound may appear when the hearing aids are not inserted correctly. You need to remove and put on your hearing aid again. If the battery contacts are grimy or corroded, use a dry fabric to clean the battery surfaces or replace the battery. If your hearing aids make clicking sounds every time you put them on, first check if they are set at the right volume. Adjust your hearing aids accordingly, or clean out your ear moulds. In most cases, the clicking sounds can be remedied by these actions, however, if the symptoms persist then please consult with your hearing care professional.

What to do if your hearing aid 'clicks'

If you notice that your hearing is or has started to click, it is recommended that you check the condition of your device. At first sight, it may be tricky to identify the cause of the clicking sound, unless it is caused by obvious means such as damage. Replacement parts such as tube and domes may help sustain hearing aid function and the right hearing aid batteries may boost its performance and life. If your hearing aid has aged, is damaged, or the clicking sound remains, it may be time for a new hearing aid. Ultimately, you should consult an audiologist or hearing care professional who would be able to recommend what you should do next.

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