Windy Days and Hearing Devices

Living with hearing aids can significantly improve your quality of life, especially if you have hearing loss. These sophisticated devices restore not just the sounds of the world around us but also our connections with loved ones, music, and nature. 

However, just like any piece of advanced technology, hearing aids require regular care and maintenance—especially during certain environmental conditions. Windy days can pose unique challenges for hearing aid wearers. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with some essential maintenance tips to keep your devices in top shape, no matter how blustery it gets outside.

Understanding the Challenge of Wind

Wind can be a formidable foe for hearing aid users. Not only can the wind itself be loud, potentially overpowering the sounds you want to hear, but it can also cause physical damage to your hearing aids if they’re not properly looked after. The rush of air can carry dust, debris, and moisture—all of which can clog or damage the microphone and receiver.

Additionally, many users report the “wind noise” phenomenon, where the sound of the wind passing over the hearing aid’s microphone can drown out other sounds, making it difficult to hear conversations, traffic, and other important auditory cues.

Tips for Protecting Your Hearing Aids on Windy Days

Here are some of our top tips for hearing aid maintenance during windy days:

1. Use Wind Protectors

Many modern hearing aids come with detachable wind protectors that fit over the microphone. These are often made of foam or another soft material that reduces the impact of the wind on the microphone’s surface, thereby reducing wind noise. Check with your hearing aid manufacturer or your hearing health professional to see if wind protectors are available for your specific model.

2. Wear Appropriate Headgear

On particularly windy days, wearing hats, caps, or scarves can help minimize the amount of wind directly hitting your hearing aids. Ensure that whatever you wear doesn’t fit too tightly around your ears, which could cause feedback or discomfort.

3. Regular Maintenance Checks

The wind often carries small particles of dust and debris that can accumulate in the nooks and crannies of your hearing aids, potentially causing blockages or damage. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential. Use a soft, dry brush to gently remove any debris from the microphone and receiver ports.

4. Moisture Management

Wind can also come with rainy conditions. Moisture is one of the main enemies of hearing aids, so it’s important to keep them dry. If you’ve been out in windy and wet weather, consider using a dehumidifier box overnight to remove any moisture that may have accumulated in your devices.

5. Adjust Settings or Programs

Some hearing aids come with specific settings or programs that can help minimize wind noise. These might need to be manually activated based on environmental conditions. Consult your user manual or hearing health professional to learn how to take advantage of these features.

6. Seek Professional Help for Adjustments

If wind noise is a significant issue for you, a professional hearing aid adjustment might be necessary. Hearing health professionals can often tweak the programming of your device to better handle wind noise, enhancing your overall hearing experience in various weather conditions.

The Importance of Regular Hearing Check-Ups

Regular check-ups with your hearing health professional are not just about adjusting your hearing aids; they’re also an opportunity to evaluate your hearing and make sure that your devices are functioning to the best of their abilities. 

Wind doesn’t have to be your hearing aid’s nemesis. Windy environments can be challenging, but with the right setup and care, your hearing aids can continue to provide excellent support without interruption. With protection and these maintenance tips, you can enjoy clear hearing, even on the breeziest of days. 

Don’t let the wind disrupt your hearing experience—visit us for a hearing test and personalized advice on protecting your hearing aids. We can also adjust your hearing aids to decrease wind noise and feedback, and review programs and settings that can help. Together we’ll make sure your devices remain in excellent condition, ready to help you navigate the world of sound, no matter the weather.