Changing the wax guard regularly keeps your hearing aids clean and in tip-top shape. Some people may need to change their wax guards every two weeks, while others may only need a change every other month. It depends on how much ear wax your ear produces
Our Audiology team recommends changing the wax guards every 6-8 weeks, or sooner, if your hearing aids are not sounding as expected.
How to change the wax guards
Begin by taking the wax guard kit provided in the hearing aid box.The wax guard tool has two functions: a removal tip to collect the used guard and a replacement tip for the new guard.
Watch this video from our Audiology team or read below the step-by-step instructions to learn how to change your wax guards.
Step by Step Instructions:
How to remove the old wax guard:
- Remove the dome from the receiver.
- Open the wax guard kit and remove one of the tools. Each tool has a small hook (the removal tip) on one end and a new wax guard on the other.
- Insert the removal tip into the used wax guard and pull the tool straight out. It is important to pull it straight and not in an angle.
How to insert the new wax guard:
- Insert the other end of the tool into the sound outlet (the end with the replacement guard).
- Gently press the replacement guard straight into the sound outlet until the outer ring is touching the sound outlet.
- Pull the tool straight out. Your new wax guard will remain in place. Re-attach the dome (or a replacement dome).
Tip:
Changing the wax guards is a common troubleshooting procedure, along with a good cleaning, if your hearing aids are not performing properly.
Hearing aids should not be used without a wax guard installed for any amount of time. Using a hearing aid without a wax guard can cause permanent damage to the receiver.