Hearing Aid Batteries: What You Need to Know About Types, Life, and Replacement

When your hearing aid suddenly goes quiet, it’s rarely a broken device—it’s usually the hearing aid batteries, small, disposable power sources that use zinc-air chemistry to deliver consistent energy for hearing devices. Also known as zinc-air batteries, these tiny cells are the lifeblood of most modern hearing aids, turning air into power the moment you pull off the tab. Unlike regular AA or AAA batteries, they’re designed for low, steady drain over days or weeks, not bursts of high energy. That’s why they’re shaped like small buttons and come in standardized sizes—10, 13, 312, and 675—each color-coded and matched to specific hearing aid models.

How long do they last? It depends. A size 10 battery might last 3 to 5 days in a small, high-power device, while a size 675 can go 10 to 14 days in a larger hearing aid. Humidity, usage time, and features like Bluetooth or noise cancellation all eat into battery life. If your battery dies faster than usual, it’s not always your fault—moisture from sweat or rain, storing them in hot places, or leaving the tab off too long before inserting can all kill them early. And yes, you can stretch life a bit: always leave the battery compartment open overnight to let moisture escape and avoid draining the cell when not in use.

Replacing them is simple, but doing it right matters. Don’t touch the metal contacts with dirty fingers—oil and dirt build up and block the connection. Always wait a full minute after removing the tab before inserting the battery. That lets oxygen fully activate the chemical reaction. And never store spare batteries in your wallet or purse with keys or coins—they can short-circuit and drain instantly. Keep them in their original packaging, in a cool, dry spot.

There’s no magic trick to making them last forever, but knowing the signs helps. If your hearing aid sounds muffled, cuts out randomly, or you have to turn the volume way up, it’s probably not the device—it’s the battery. Most modern hearing aids even beep or flash to warn you before they die. If you’re switching from one brand to another, don’t assume they’re interchangeable—even if the size matches, the voltage and discharge curve can vary slightly and affect performance.

Rechargeable hearing aids are growing fast, but millions still rely on disposable batteries. That means understanding how they work isn’t just helpful—it’s necessary. You’re not just buying a battery; you’re buying hours of clear sound, confidence in conversations, and quiet mornings without fumbling for a replacement. The right battery, inserted correctly, keeps your world loud and clear.

Below, you’ll find real-world guides on how to pick the right battery, troubleshoot common problems, and even save money without sacrificing performance.