Frequently Asked Questions
Hearing Aid Basics
HearAid vs. Other Hearing Devices
Buying a HearAid
Using HearAid
Hearing Aid Basics
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You feel people don’t speak clearly or you hear only parts of conversations
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You strain to hear what people are saying or ask them to repeat things
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Friends or relatives comment that you are not hearing things well
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Others say you play the TV or radio too loudly
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You can’t always hear the doorbell or telephone
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You rely on lip-reading to help understand what people are saying
In cases like these, mild to moderate hearing loss can be alleviated by using a hearing solution like HearAid. Take our Quick Hearing Test to see if HearAid is right for you or someone you know.
Should I see my doctor first?
Hearing loss can be a symptom of more serious medical conditions. If you are experiencing greater hearing loss than what is described above, or if you have any of the following, you should consult a medical ear specialist:
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Excessive wax buildup
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Pain or discomfort in your ear(s)
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A foreign body or blockage in your ear
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Visible deformity of the ear
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Sudden or rapidly progressive hearing loss within the past 90 days
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Ringing in only one ear
Don’t I need a prescription for a hearing aid?
Contrary to what many believe, you do not need a doctor’s prescription for any hearing aid. However, a doctor may refer you to an audiologist (hearing aid specialist) who fits and configures hearing aids.
Unlike traditional hearing aids, HearAid comes pre-configured with the programs and features most needed by people experiencing mild to moderate hearing loss. It is also adjustable to fit most adult ears. That is why we are able to sell it as a “one size fits all” solution and at a significantly lower price than traditional hearing aids.
Is HearAid covered by my insurance?
Most insurance policies do not provide for hearing aids of any kind, which is why traditional hearing aids currently represent such a substantial financial commitment to consumers. This is also why we believe that HearAid products represent the best value for anyone with mild to moderate hearing loss.
For more information on insurance coverage, check with your provider who can provide specific details about your plan.
HearAid vs. Other Hearing Devices
What kind of hearing aid is HearAid?
HearAid is a behind-the-ear (BTE), open fit hearing aid. It has advanced digital signal processing like traditional hearing aids, but it is uniquely designed to be used right out of the box. The components of the HearAid product fit discreetly behind the ear, which allows the dome that is inserted into the ear to be very small and comfortable.
Does HearAid have digital technology?Yes. HearAid products feature the same components and digital hearing technology found in devices sold by hearing healthcare professionals. It is not unusual for us to hear from our customers that HearAids sound as good as, if not better than, traditional hearing aids they've tried that cost thousands more.
Most hearing loss falls into these categories: slight, mild, moderate, severe, or profound hearing loss. HearAid products are not designed to help severe or profound losses. Rather, they include features most needed by people in the range of mild to moderate hearing loss.
HearAid products are pre-configured with three different settings that work in a variety of listening settings, and for a variety of different degrees of hearing loss. HearAid products also feature a volume control that allows you to adjust your HearAid to an amplification that is individually right for you.
How can HearAid be so inexpensive?Many people wonder how HearAid can offer the same quality of hearing aids as a clinic at such a low price. HearAid products are designed as a "one size fits all" solution with the same components in each unit. Since the components are purchased in large quantities and custom fitting is not required, we have eliminated the hearing care professional middleman and passed savings along to you.
HearAid is available at a fraction of the cost of traditional hearing aids, many of which can cost a couple of thousand dollars. The low cost coupled with its high-quality digital sound makes HearAid a tremendous value. It's easy to try, without big up-front financial commitments.
What if my HearAid doesn't fit me?
If your HearAid doesn’t fit, try changing to a different size sound dome. For assistance in changing the dome, refer to your HearAid Instruction Manual. If the fit still is not satisfactory, call our Customer Service department for assistance.
Buying a HearAid
What is included when I buy?
Your HearAid is shipped with the following items: the HearAid device, a carry pouch, a four-pack of batteries, a cleaning tool, three sizes of domes (small, medium and large) for fitting and comfort options, and an instruction manual. The instruction manual includes tips and techniques that will help you get the most out of your HearAid product.
Just like using both your eyes to see is more effective, so it is with using both your ears to hear. While wearing one hearing device may be sufficient for some people, studies show that hearing in adverse listening conditions is better when hearing is equal in both ears. Using two aids instead of one is likely to:
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Reduce the need for extra volume
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Detect sound direction more accurately
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Keep both ears actively engaged in listening
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Experience more natural sound
No, HearAid products are not appropriate for anyone under 18 years old. If you suspect your child has a hearing loss, consult with your doctor.
Yes. HearAids are self-fitting to most adults. They are also pre-programmed to address most mild to moderate hearing needs. HearAid filters out annoying background noise while targeting and amplifying the human voice range. There is no need for a medical exam. For these reasons, our hearing aids make a perfect gift for a parent or loved one that may be procrastinating in getting the hearing help that they need.
Yes. We offer a 45-day money-back period. You may return the aids and all accessories within the 45-day trial for a full refund minus shipping and handling fees. If you don’t like your HearAid product, or if you experience a problem with the product, we encourage you to let us know of any concerns you have before sending them back. It may be something as simple as cleaning the wax from the device, adjusting the volume, etc. Please call Customer Service at 1-877-GO-HEARAID or read more about our Satisfaction Guarantee.
Using HearAid
The ultimate goal of HearAid is to restore your full range of hearing as much as possible. However, HearAid isn’t a “super” device. Just like if you had a normal range of hearing, you may not be able to hear very soft sounds, and background noise may still be distracting. However, the technology in HearAid will help you understand conversations better. You’ll enjoy listening to music and television again. You’ll improve your quality of life.
Many people get used to wearing their HearAid in just a few hours or days while others may take a couple of weeks. We recommend that you wear it for short periods of time initially in situations where hearing in noisy situations is challenging. You can determine if HearAid will work to your satisfaction within the within the 45-day money back guarantee period.
Is it comfortable and discreet?Most of the HearAid components fit discreetly behind the ear, allowing the dome that is inserted into the ear to be very small and comfortable. HearAid is a great choice for people who have not tried a hearing aid before.
Can I control the volume?Yes you can. Every HearAid is equipped with a volume control that allows you to adjust the volume of your HearAid as needed for any listening situation.
How do I get rid of that whistling noise?If your HearAid whistles or squeals, you can usually correct this quite easily. Try one of the following:
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Reposition the dome in your ear canal (this will correct feedback in most instances)
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If whistling continues, adjust the volume control to a lower setting until the whistling stops.
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Remove any buildup of earwax in the tube or dome.
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Check that the tube is securely connected to your HearAid. If it is loose, you will need to change it.
How do I choose the correct size of dome for my ear?Each HearAid comes with three different sizes of domes to help provide a good fit. The dome should fit comfortably in your ear and not put excessive pressure on your ear. The first time you put on your HearAid, try the medium-size dome. If it is too loose in your ear canal, change the dome to the large size. Alternatively, if the dome feels uncomfortably tight, try the small dome.
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Keep your HearAid clean and dry.
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Avoid exposing your HearAid to any moisture such as rain, water from the shower, splashing from a pool, etc.
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If your HearAid is exposed to excessive moisture, leave the battery compartment open and empty overnight. This will allow it to dry out.
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Never use alcohol to clean the HearAid casebody, tubes, or domes.
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Gently wipe the HearAid case with a soft cloth or tissue after each use to remove body oil and moisture.
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Always remove your HearAid when using hair care products (hairspray, gel, etc.) Your HearAid can become easily clogged and cease to function properly.
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Never immerse your HearAid in water or other liquids. This will cause permanent damage to the circuitry.
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Avoid dropping your HearAid on floors and other hard surfaces. Protect it from rough handling.
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Do not leave your HearAid in or near direct heat or sunlight. Excessive heat can damage the device circuitry and/or deform the casing or tube.
How long does the battery last?Assuming 12 hours of use per day, the original HearAid product will last about 15 to 20 days; the HearAid Micro product will last about 10 to 13 days. Actual battery life varies and depends on how the device is used and maintained.
The following conditions could have a negative effect on battery life if the device is:
- Used constantly in very noisy situations
- Operated with the volume control set to high levels
- Not turned off when not in use
- Operated with continuous feedback (whistling) or in any condition which makes the electronics work harder
How long will my HearAid last?That depends. Your HearAid is designed to last for years with proper cleaning and storage. The tube should be replaced every six months, or more frequently if it becomes stiff or brittle. The sound dome should be replaced every six months, or more frequently if it is torn or discolored.
If your hearing loss progresses, your HearAid may not be sufficient for your hearing needs. If you notice that you no longer are receiving benefit from your HearAid product, even with increases to the volume with the volume control, you may need to see a hearing care professional to obtain a more powerful hearing aid.
Can I reprogram my HearAid?HearAids are pre-programmed in the factory and cannot be adjusted or re-programmed. This is one of the reasons our hearing aids are so affordable. Our research shows that the amplification and programs in HearAid products work well for most people with mild to moderate hearing loss.
How should I store my HearAid?If you will not be using your HearAid for an extended period of time, remove the battery and keep your HearAid in its case.
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