As an expert audiologist with extensive experience in fitting Phonak hearing aids, I have encountered numerous questions regarding the proper method to turn off these devices. Many caregivers and family members need this information but are not present when the hearing aids are being fitted.
Turning Off Rechargeable Hearing Aids
Phonak offers a range of rechargeable hearing aids that provide convenience and ease of use. To turn off a rechargeable Phonak hearing aid, you have two options:
- Placing the Hearing Aid in the Charger: The simplest way to turn off a rechargeable Phonak hearing aid is to put it in the charger with the charger connected to a power source. When the hearing aid is placed in the charger, it will automatically power down, ensuring the battery is preserved for the next use.
- Manual Power-Off: If you prefer to manually turn off the hearing aid, follow these steps:
- Locate the toggle switch on the hearing aid. It is typically located on the back or bottom of the device.
- Press and hold the lower side of the toggle switch for approximately 3 seconds.
- After holding the toggle switch, you will notice the light on the hearing aid flash red. This indicates that the device has powered off successfully.
It is important to note that if you choose to manually turn off the hearing aid, it’s recommended to place it in the charger when not in use to ensure proper charging and battery longevity. See troubleshooting problems if you have issues.
Turning Off Standard Battery-Powered Hearing Aids
For Phonak standard battery-powered hearing aids, such as In-The-Ear (ITE), Behind-The-Ear (BTE), or Receiver-In-Canal (RIC) models, the process to turn off the device is slightly different. Follow the steps below:
- Open the Battery Door: Locate the battery compartment on the hearing aid. The battery door is usually positioned on the back or bottom of the device. Carefully open the battery door, ensuring not to apply excessive force that might damage the device.
- Crack the Battery Door: It is not necessary to fully open the battery door; simply cracking it open will suffice. By slightly opening the door, you interrupt the power supply and turn off the hearing aid.
Remember to fully close the battery door when you are ready to use the hearing aid again. This ensures the battery remains engaged and provides power to the device.
Properly turning off your hearing aids when not in use helps conserve battery life and ensures optimal performance when you need them next.
