Whether you’re enjoying a neighborhood pool party, heading to Lake Austin or taking a beach vacation, summertime means more days near the water. If you wear hearing aids, water can feel like a constant worry. Fortunately, today’s technology offers improved water resistance, helping you stay active while protecting your devices.
What Does Water-Resistant Mean?
Hearing aids come with an Ingress Protection (IP) rating. This two-number code tells you how well the device can withstand dust and moisture. The first number (0–6) refers to dust protection, while the second number (0–9) refers to water resistance.
A device rated IP68, for example, is completely dust-tight and built to handle immersion in water under specific conditions. That said, water-resistant is not the same as waterproof, and there are limits to how much moisture your devices can handle.
Swimming and Your Hearing Aids
Even with a top-tier rating, hearing aids are not intended for prolonged use underwater. The coating and seals protect against rain, sweat or a quick splash. Some devices may even be able to handle full submersion for a short period, meaning dropping them into the pool doesn’t necessarily mean they’re broken for good.
While this level of water-resistance is a significant advancement, you still shouldn’t swim with your devices. Before you jump into the pool or surf, remove your devices and store them in a dry, secure container. By understanding your hearing aids’ water resistance level and taking a few precautions, you can enjoy the summer season without unnecessary stress.
How To Care for Wet Hearing Aids
Accidents happen. Maybe your hearing aids slip off while you’re near the lake, or you forget to remove them before cannonballing into the pool. If they’re rated IP68, they should still function well after brief submersion. Retrieve them quickly, pat them dry and place them in a hearing aid dryer or dehumidifier.
If you notice sound distortion, poor battery life or other performance issues, schedule a checkup with Austin Auditory Specialists. Prompt attention can prevent the need for more repairs in the future.