How to Replace Your BTE Hearing Aid Tubing

How to Replace Your BTE Hearing Aid Tubing Is your hearing aid whistling, producing feedback, or sounding muffled? It might be time for a tube change! In this step-by-step tutorial, Brandon Alexander Adawi, a Nationally Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist, demonstrates exactly how to replace the tubing on your Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aid and earmold. Over time, natural body oils cause the hollow tubing to harden and shrink, preventing sound from traveling effectively into your ear. To keep your device performing at its best, it is highly recommended to change this tubing about every four months. Step-by-Step Replacement Guide: *Remove the Old Tube:* If the old tube has become rock hard, carefully use a hair dryer or heat gun for a second or two to loosen the plastic so you can pry it off the ear hook. *Measure and Cut:* Take your new tube (ensuring it is the same style and thickness as your old one) and line up its lock/bend with the old tube to measure the correct length. Snip it to size using wire cutters. *Thread the Earmold:* For snug earmolds, use a tube puller to thread the un-bent end of the tube through the mold. Pull it completely through until the lock seats perfectly into the built-in indention inside the earmold. *Trim the Excess:* Use your wire cutters to clip the remaining tubing perfectly flush against the bottom of the earmold. *Reattach to the Hearing Aid:* Firmly shove the top of the new tube onto the hearing aid's ear hook. This can require some effort, but you can apply a brief amount of heat to expand the tube if you need help getting it fully seated.