What Can Actually Be Fixed When Your Hearing Aid Breaks?

When a hearing aid suddenly goes quiet, starts whistling, or takes a tumble onto a tile floor, the first worry is usually whether it can be saved. Many hearing aid problems are repairable, and a good number of them can be handled in a single office visit. Knowing what to expect makes the situation less stressful and helps you decide on next steps with confidence.

Quick Checks to Try at Home First

A couple of simple checks can sometimes save you a trip. If your hearing aids use disposable batteries, start by swapping in a fresh one. If they're rechargeable, confirm they're fully charged and seated correctly in the charger. Then look closely at the microphone openings and the dome or earpiece for visible earwax, which can block sound even when the electronics are working perfectly.

If those steps don't solve the problem, give us a call. We can often troubleshoot over the phone and, when it's needed, schedule a same-day appointment so you aren't without your hearing for long.

Repairs We Can Often Handle In-Office

Many of the issues patients bring to us can be resolved during the visit itself. Dr. Jamie Marotto regularly addresses problems such as:

• Wax blockages in the microphones, receivers, and wax guards
• Moisture damage from humidity, perspiration, or getting caught in the rain
• Battery door problems, including doors that won't close or hold a battery securely
• Volume control issues and buttons that have stopped responding
• Programming adjustments when sound quality has changed or settings need fine-tuning

A repair visit is also a chance for a thorough look at the whole device. Along with fixing the immediate problem, we run diagnostics and give your hearing aids a professional cleaning so they're working well when you leave. We service all major brands, including Oticon, Starkey, Widex, and ReSound, and we're glad to help patients whose hearing aids were purchased at another practice.

When a Repair Goes to the Manufacturer

Some problems call for parts and equipment that only the manufacturer's repair lab has. Internal component failures, a cracked shell or casing, and serious physical damage from a drop or a run through the washing machine usually fall into this category.

In these cases, we coordinate the repair directly with the manufacturer. Working through the manufacturer helps protect any warranty coverage you have and means the correct parts are used. We coordinate that process for you.

What to Expect for Turnaround Time and Cost

Most minor repairs and cleanings are finished while you wait. Repairs sent to a manufacturer take longer, and the timeline depends on the brand and the nature of the problem. We'll give you a realistic estimate of how long it should take, and when possible, we can offer loaner devices so you can stay connected in the meantime.

Repair costs vary with the type of problem and whether your hearing aids are still under warranty. Before any work begins, we'll provide a clear estimate so there are no surprises. Many basic maintenance services are also included with our ongoing care programs.

When Replacement Is the Better Call

Repair is often the right choice, although there are times when a new device makes more sense. Replacement is worth discussing when:

• The same hearing aid has needed repeated repairs over a short period
• The warranty has ended and the repair needed is a major one
• Your hearing has changed, and your current devices can no longer be adjusted to meet your needs
• You'd benefit from features your current hearing aids don't have, such as rechargeable batteries or streaming from your phone

If we find that replacement deserves a look, we'll explain what we found and walk you through your options so you can make the decision that fits your hearing, lifestyle, and budget. Because we work with all major hearing aid brands, our recommendation is based on what suits you best.

Get Hearing Aid Repair in Westport

Fairfield County Audiology is Westport's only audiologist-owned practice, and we focus exclusively on hearing healthcare. Dr. Marotto brings experience with all major hearing aid brands to every repair, along with the unhurried, personal attention our patients count on. To help prevent future problems, we also offer care plans that include routine cleanings, wax removal, and performance checks.

If your hearing aid isn't working the way it should, call us at (203) 628-2142 to schedule a repair appointment. Our office is open Monday through Friday, and we're happy to help you get back to hearing your best.