Phonak rechargeable hearing aids have gained immense popularity among individuals with hearing loss due to their advanced technology and convenience. They are in fact the most popular hearing aid the VA fits. One common question that arises is whether these hearing aids can be charged in a car. The simple answer is Yes, plug them into a USB outlet.
Understanding Phonak Rechargeable Hearing Aids
Phonak offers a range of rechargeable hearing aids that utilize cutting-edge lithium-ion battery technology. These rechargeable hearing aids have eliminated the need for traditional disposable batteries, providing users with a more eco-friendly and cost-effective solution. With their long-lasting battery life, Phonak rechargeable hearing aids offer a full day’s use on a single charge.
See also, what to do if your hearing aid battery is draining too fast.
Charging Phonak Rechargeable Hearing Aids
Now, let’s address the question of whether Phonak rechargeable hearing aids can be charged in a car. The answer is yes! All Phonak rechargeable hearing aids are safe to charge off of a USB outlet in your car.
The official answer according to the user manual is the plug aids in with the cord and the adapter that they came with, however, I have confirmed with Phonak sales rep that they can be charged using a USB port in a car.
I have also had countless patients who have done this without any adverse effects.
USB Charging Capability
Phonak rechargeable hearing aids come with a charger that uses a standard USB connection. This makes it incredibly convenient to charge your hearing aids using various power sources, including a car’s USB outlet. Many modern cars are equipped with USB ports, allowing you to easily charge your hearing aids during your daily commute or on long road trips.
Choosing the Right Cord for Charging
If you have lost the original cord for your Phonak rechargeable hearing aid charger, don’t worry! You can easily purchase a replacement cord to ensure seamless charging. The type of cord you need depends on the specific model of your Phonak hearing aid:
- Phonak Audeo B or Phonak Audeo M Hearing Aid: If you have a Phonak Audeo B or Phonak Audeo M hearing aid, it requires a micro USB cable for charging. This is a commonly used cable type that you can find at electronics stores or online retailers.
- Phonak Audeo P or Phonak Audeo L Hearing Aid: For Phonak Audeo P or Phonak Audeo L hearing aids, you will need a USB-C cable for charging. USB-C is a newer and more versatile connector type that is becoming increasingly popular. You can easily find USB-C cables in stores or online.
Power supply and charger Specifications
Power supply input voltage 100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz,
current 0.25 A
Power supply output voltage 5 VDC +/-10%, current 1 A
Charger input voltage 5 VDC +/-10%, current 1 A
USB cable specifications 5 V min. 1 A, USB-A to USB
When purchasing a replacement cord, ensure that it is of good quality and compatible with your Phonak rechargeable hearing aid charger. It is recommended to choose a cord from a reputable brand or the official Phonak accessories store to ensure optimal performance and safety.
Considerations for Car Charging
While charging Phonak rechargeable hearing aids in a car is possible, there are a few factors to keep in mind:
- Power Source: Ensure that the car’s USB outlet provides sufficient power output for charging your hearing aids. Some older or low-powered USB ports may not supply enough current for efficient charging. However, most modern cars offer USB outlets with adequate power output.
- Adapter or Cable: Depending on your car’s USB outlet, you may need an adapter or cable to connect the charger of your Phonak rechargeable hearing aids. It is advisable to check the compatibility of the USB connection in your car and have the necessary adapters or cables handy.
