How to Change a Wax Filter on Your Hearing Aids
The accumulation of cerumen and other build up is a normal part of wearing hearing aids. Because of this, there are defenses built into the devices that stop the wax from working its way into the internal part of the device. These defenses are referred to as wax filters or wax guards. They can vary in shape, size, and color depending on the manufacturer, but they have one thing in common- they can all be changed with a few simple steps.
To change a filter:
If the hearing aid has a soft tip on the end of the aid called the “dome,” remove it and place it in a safe spot. If the aid is custom or has an earmold, this step can be skipped.
There will be a small white tip on the end of the wire or earmold. This is the wax filter.
Open the pack of replacement wax filters obtained from a hearing healthcare professional and gently pull out a tab or stick (will be different depending on hearing aid type). There will be an “empty” end, and an end with a new filter on it.
To remove the old filter, insert the empty end of the tab or stick into the old filter (will feel a gentle click), then pull up to remove it.
Now insert the new filter. If the hearing aid has domes, replace the dome onto the end of the wire. Ensure a secure fit by pressing down on the dome several times with fingers.
Verify the sound and fit of the hearing aids.
Note that filters should never be cleaned or reused. This can cause damage to the hearing device. Extra filters can be obtained from a local audiologist. Many hearing aid users will replace these filters once a month, while others will wait and have their audiologist take care of it during routine hearing aid maintenance. This decision will be based on how much cerumen the user produces, and how comfortable the user is with performing this process. Please note that changing filters requires some dexterity and working with small parts. If this is foreseen as an issue, it may be necessary to ask a loved one for assistance. The devices can also be brought to a local audiologist, who will be happy to assist with the process.
