Just like smartphones, laptops, and tablets, cochlear sound processors with rechargeable batteries use lithium-ion batteries. Not only are they better for the environment than disposable batteries, but they are also lightweight and offer a lot of power and energy for their size. It’s important to remember that battery life varies for every user. Factors that impact this are the programs you use each day, your implant type, the thickness of skin covering your implant, how often and how long you stream from devices and the size and type of battery used.
The amount of charge a battery can hold and the amount of power it can provide decreases over time as batteries age.
If you use rechargeable batteries, (which you can purchase from the online Cochlear Store), here are five ways you can help to prolong their life.
1. Don’t let your batteries completely die
With older model rechargeable batteries, it was common to let the batteries completely die before recharging, however, this is not recommended for the newer lithium-ion rechargeable batteries used widely today.
In fact, letting them die completely may actually shorten their lifespan. Remember to recharge your batteries before they become completely flat.
2. Recharge your batteries fully
When you charge your batteries, ensure you charge them to their maximum capacity. You should also charge them fully before storing them.
3. Avoid extreme temperatures
Batteries don’t like excessive heat or cold, and exposure to extreme temperatures can speed up the ageing process of your rechargeable batteries.
As an example, don’t leave your batteries in hot environments, such as in direct sunlight or inside a parked car.
Ideally, store your batteries at room temperature.
4. Cycle through your batteries
Don’t store your rechargeable batteries for extended periods of time. If you have multiple batteries, it’s a good idea to rotate through them each time you use them or every day instead of using one and storing others.
5. Replace your batteries when indicated
It’s a fact of life even with the greatest of care, your batteries will age and degrade over time.
When your battery doesn’t provide you with enough “time on air” for your needs, it’s probably time to consider replacing.
When a battery reaches its lifespan and can no longer be charged sufficiently, the charger will indicate the need for battery replacement by a flashing orange indicator light. Make sure you replace your rechargeable batteries as soon as you can.
Did you know you can buy batteries and chargers for your sound processor on the online Cochlear Store? Browse rechargeable batteries here.
