The whistling noise coming from your hearing aids, often known as feedback, can be both frustrating and concerning. This high-pitched sound usually occurs due to sound that’s been amplified by your hearing aid and then escapes, only to find its way back into the microphone.Feedback in hearing aids happens for several reasons, including a poor fit, the buildup of earwax, or the microphone being too close to your ear canal. It’s a common issue among hearing aid users, but it’s one that can often be managed with some simple adjustments. Don’t worry – there are several ways to address this issue at home before considering professional help for your hearing aids.

Tip 1: Clean Your Hearing Aids 

One major cause of feedback is the buildup of earwax and debris adjusting the fit of your device accidentally. Keeping your hearing aids clean is crucial in preventing this issue. Here’s how you can do it: Start by gently wiping your hearing aids with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using water or any cleaning agents. Most hearing aids come with a small brush specifically designed for removing wax from the device. Brush away any visible wax or debris from the openings. If your hearing aid has an earmold, ensure it’s clean. You might need to detach it and clean it separately. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for this, as water or cleaning agents could irritate your ears or damage your devices. By maintaining a regular cleaning schedule, you’ll prevent buildup that can cause whistling. 

Tip 2: Turn Down the Volume! 

Another reason your hearing aids might whistle is due to the volume being set too high. While it’s important that your hearing aids help you hear clearly, high volume can cause sound to leak and result in feedback.  Try decreasing the volume to see if that eliminates the whistling; find a balance where you can still hear comfortably without the feedback. If your hearing aids are compatible with a smartphone app, use it to adjust the volume more precisely. If you regularly need to lower the volume, it might indicate that the device isn’t properly programmed to your hearing needs. This would be a good time to consult with your audiologist for a tune-up. 

Tip 3: Perform a Factory Reset 

Sometimes, your hearing aids might develop feedback issues that a simple cleaning or volume adjustment can’t solve. This can be due to an internal setting error, which a factory reset can fix.  Every hearing aid is different, so it’s important to review your user manual for specific reset instructions. Many hearing aids can be reset using an app designed by the manufacturer. This usually involves connecting your device via Bluetooth and selecting a reset option within the app. If you’re uncomfortable resetting the device on your own, or if the issue persists after resetting, it might be time to book an appointment for a professional hearing aid tune-up or repairs. Performing a reset can often resolve underlying issues that cause feedback. 

Book Your Hearing Aid Tune-Up Today If you’ve tried these solutions and your hearing aids are still whistling, it may be time to seek professional assistance. Don’t let feedback disrupt your day-to-day life. If you’ve tried the above fixes and found no relief from feedback or whistling, visit us for a comprehensive hearing aid repair appointment. 

With professional guidance from our team of hearing experts, your devices will be thoroughly examined for issues, whether you’re dealing with feedback, connectivity issues, hearing aids that won’t turn on, or more. You can rest assured that we’re here to help! Request a callback to get in touch with our team, or give us a call at (812) 532-3011.