How to take care of your Zinc air batteries?

What distinguishes the zinc air battery from other batteries

The zinc air battery operates in a very different manner than other types of batteries. When the seal is removed, the zinc air battery is completely filled with zinc, which reacts with oxygen from the air (see below). It has a lot of energy stored despite being a small battery. Furthermore, it maintains its voltage for an extended period of time. With these two characteristics, this battery demonstrates that it is a very good battery.

3 important things your need to know about Zinc air batteries

Always keep the following tips in mind before inserting the battery in your hearing aid.

1. Remove the tab  

Most importantly, remove the tab before inserting the battery into your hearing aid. This tab is located on the battery's backside and closes four small holes. Without removing the seal, the battery has a voltage of 1.1 V to 1.3 V, but removing the seal allows oxygen to enter the battery, increasing the voltage to 1.45 V. If the seal is not removed, the hearing aid will work for 1 to 2 days. Remove the seal to ensure a long lifespan and optimal performance.

2. Wash your hands 

When dirt or grease comes into contact with the battery, it can cause a faster discharge or, in the worst-case scenario, a dangerous short-circuit. Both types of issues can be avoided by washing your hands before touching the battery when replacing the batteries.

3. Let the battery breathe 

Always allow the tab to 'breathe' after removing it from the battery. What does this imply? It's simple: without air, the battery will not function properly. Allow the tab to breathe for at least 1 minute or, for best results, 5 minutes after removing it. Then, insert it into your hearing aid's battery holder. By observing this 'breathing time,' you can extend the life of your zinc air battery by 30 to 80%. If you remove the tab and immediately insert the battery into your hearing aid, you will reduce the battery's lifespan.

4 simple tips to maximise the lifespan of Zinc air batteries

You now understand that zinc air batteries are unique and require special care. The most important usage tips are to wash your hands, remove the tab, and let it breathe, but here are four more. If you consider these factors, you will be able to extend the life of your zinc air batteries.

1. Start with the oldest batteries.

Always use the oldest batteries available. The more energy batteries lose the longer they are stored. This rule also applies to zinc air batteries, despite their extremely long shelf life. If you have a choice between an older and a newer battery, go with the older one.

2. Leave the battery holder open at night.

Turn off your hearing aid and remove the battery holder when not in use, such as at night. As a result, the battery is disconnected from the circuit and can add additional oxygen, extending its life. Keep in mind, however, that you should only do this in the conditions described above: dry and cool or at room temperature, to avoid condensation and other effects that could reduce the shelf life of your zinc air battery.

3. Keep them in good condition.

Keep your batteries dry, cool, and at room temperature. If you store your batteries at excessively high temperatures, their lifespan, and especially their shelf life, will be drastically reduced. Temperatures that are too low may cause condensation, which will reduce the battery's lifespan. Humidity is also important: high humidity can lead to condensation. A cool or room temperature dry place is the best place to store your zinc air batteries until you are ready to use them.

4. Remove the battery when not using the hearing aids for an extended period of time.

If you won't be using your hearing aid for an extended period of time, remove the batteries and store them in a cool, dry place. This will benefit both your hearing aid and the batteries. It also prevents corrosion and condensation in the device and on the battery.

The zinc air battery uses zinc and oxygen from the air to generate a consistent level of power, making it an ideal battery for new generation digital hearing aids. Always keep the above tips and tricks in mind when using this type of battery, and you will not be misled by its capabilities!

Discover our zinc air batteries: PR10, PR13, PR312 and PR675. 

 
In the zinc air battery, zinc and oxygen from the air work together to generate a steady level of power, which makes it the ideal battery for new generation digital hearing aids. Always keep the tips and tricks above in mind when using this type of battery and you won't be deceived by the capabilities of this battery!