According to The Royal National Institute for Deaf People, there are in total 8,945,000 deaf and hard of hearing people in the UK. For many people, the recommended solution is to use a type of micro-computer to enhance external sound, called a hearing aid.

No matter which type of hearing aids you are wearing, they all require batteries to function accordingly and to improve your hearing. Hearing aid batteries are likely to last anywhere between 4 week to 6 weeks depending on the type and amplification of the device, therefore over their life time use, hundreds will be needed. If you are able to extend their use you will be saving thousands of ponds.

1. Pay attention to shelf life - This refers to the time an inactive battery can be stored before it becomes unusable. Make sure that the battery which you have bought is still within its calendar life.

2. Be sensible - When the device is not in use, switch it off. There are certain activities where are should not wear a hearing aid, such as sleeping, swimming, bathing etc. By switching off the device, you will greatly extend the battery’s life.

3. Avoid exposing the device to extreme conditions - Certain temperatures, either too hot or too cold might expedite the depletion of the battery. Keep the device indoors when it is not in use at room temperature.

4. Use dedicated hearing aid batteries - There are number of hearing aid batteries manufacturers such as Rayovac whose batteries are designed for hearing aids use.

Despite your best attempts, the battery might lose power when you need it the most. It is therefore recommended to always carry extra hearing aid batteries with you to avoid losing your hearing at critical times.