Rechargeable or Disposable Batteries in Hearing Aids: How They Differ
In short. Hearing aids run either on a built-in rechargeable battery that charges overnight, or on small disposable zinc-air batteries that are changed every few days. Rechargeable models are easier for people who find small batteries hard to handle; disposable batteries suit people who prefer not to depend on a charger. Either way, button batteries are dangerous if swallowed and must be kept away from children and pets.
Rechargeable hearing aids
Most rechargeable hearing aids have a built-in lithium-ion battery. You place them in a charger at night and wear them all day. There is no small battery to change, which helps people with limited dexterity or vision.
A full charge is meant to last a day of normal use. Like every rechargeable battery, it slowly holds less charge over the years; replacing it is a service job rather than something done at home. When travelling, the charger has to come too.
Disposable batteries
Disposable hearing aid batteries are zinc-air cells. A sticker seals them; they start working when it is removed and air reaches the cell. Many manufacturers advise waiting about a minute after removing the sticker before inserting the battery.
Sizes are standard and colour-coded on the packaging: 10 (yellow), 312 (brown), 13 (orange) and 675 (blue). Smaller sizes run out sooner. The user guide of the device says which size it takes.
What drains a battery faster
- Streaming phone calls, music or TV to the hearing aids.
- Many hours of use in noisy places, where the device works harder.
- More amplification for greater hearing loss.
- Cold weather, for disposable cells.
Choosing between them
- Handling small batteries is difficult → rechargeable is usually easier.
- You travel a lot or are often away from power → disposable batteries can be simpler.
- You stream a lot → check how long the device lasts with streaming.
- Not every style comes in a rechargeable version. Hearing aid styles explains why.
Battery safety
Button batteries, including hearing aid batteries, can cause serious injury if swallowed. Keep new and used batteries out of reach of children and pets, and never put them in your mouth. If a battery may have been swallowed, seek emergency medical help immediately; do not wait for symptoms.
Key takeaways
- Rechargeable: charge overnight, nothing small to change.
- Disposable: zinc-air cells, colour-coded sizes 10, 312, 13 and 675.
- Streaming and long days in noise drain batteries faster.
- Handling, travel and streaming habits usually decide the choice.
- A swallowed button battery is an emergency.
Questions and answers
How long does a disposable battery last?
It depends on the size, the device and how it is used. Smaller cells and heavy streaming mean shorter life. The device's user guide gives a typical range.
Can I put disposable batteries in a rechargeable hearing aid?
Only if the model is designed for both. Most rechargeable models have a sealed battery. Check the user guide.
What should I do if a child swallows a hearing aid battery?
Seek emergency medical help immediately. Do not wait for symptoms.
Sources and further reading
This page draws on the following sources.
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This information is general and does not replace an examination by a qualified professional.