FAQ's

How will I know that I need a hearing aid?

The only way to establish a need for hearing aids is to have your hearing tested by a fully qualified hearing aid dispenser.The hearing test will establish not only the type and degree of the loss, but also whether hearing aids will be of assistance. At Hearing Aids at Trade our dispensers will not only advise on whether hearing aids will help but will also advise what products are most suitable for your lifestyle. In fact we will also offer a demonstration to make sure that the hearing aids will be of benefit. For peace of mind we will even offer 60 days from the point of fitting for you to exchange or upgrade your hearing aids. In the worst case scenario where the hearing aids do not provide any benefit we will also offer a full money back guarantee.    

How many kinds of digital hearing aids are there?

There are over 300 different types of digital hearing aids. Prices generally will vary because of the technology levels contained within the hearing aid. All hearing aids essentially have a microphone or microphones where sound enters the hearing aid, a receiver that ommits the sound into the ear and a bit in the middle. It is the bit in the middle or how the sound is processed that will alter the quality of how well you hear and will also reflect the differences in cost. For more accurate programming and clearer hearing, the number of channels or times the sound is divided up after entering the microphone is an important consideration. Quite simply the more channels the hearing aid has then the clearer the hearing, (a little bit like the number of lines on your televison affecting the clarity of the picture). Some hearing aids will reduce background noise in varying ways dependent on the manufacturer, making speech in noisier surroundings more audable. These are only two about 15 attributes within a hearing aid that affect the performance and price. For more information or advice on products and their features please call us free on        0800 3283 867.

How do I know which hearing aid is best for me?

While it is reasonable to assume that the more a hearing aid costs the better it performs, it is also true that some people may not need some of the many advanced features within the hearing aids because of their lifestyle. Thus clients could be spending too much money unnecessarily for features that they may never need or use. This is why a case history is compiled by the hearing aid dispenser in order to make sure that the client has all their needs met with a product that falls within their budget. A client who has a more demanding lifestyle, either socially or at work will benefit with more advanced technology. 

Why do Hearing aids cost so much?

Hearing aids can vary in price from hundredsto thousands of pounds. Although it is true to say that the products quality affects the price, the cost of the same products can dramatically vary from company to company. National companies can cost up to 50% more than our local independents, due to the vast overheads they have with marketing, management, Head office costs ect. At Hearing Aids at Trade prices have been found to be as much as £3000 cheaper than some national companies. The cost of our hearing aids will also include the manufacturers guarantee (usually 2 years as standard with a choice of an extra 2 or 3 years at a supplement). All other follow up, aftercare and servicing is included within our cost. As the a hearing loss worsens with time, the hearing aids will need to be reprogrammed to match the new hearing loss, this is also included free of charge. These services are offered by the dispenser for the life of the aid regardless of warranty. Manufacturers are always keen to invest heavily in research and development to produce better, more affective hearing aids. These costs also contribute to the hearing aid price.

How long do hearing aids last?

Generally the reasons why hearing aids need to be replaced are that the aid no longer covers the users hearing loss or better technology is required by the client. Hearing aids generally last around 5 to 7 years on average. Taking good care of the aid is essential for longevity. Always turn the aids off when removing, keep the aids in a dry place and do not allow the aid to get wet. Have it serviced regularly ensuring that tubing and filters are replaced when required if applicable. We would strongly reccomend that you consider having your hearing aids insured under your household contents against accidental damage or loss and to keep out of the reach of children and pets.     

Are Hearing Aids covered by the NHS?

If you wish to choose a NHS hearing system you must first visit your doctor who will refer you to ENT to have your hearing tested. There is generally a waiting list that will vary from weeks to months depending which health authority you come under. Whilst the NHS generally provide a good level of service for the hard of hearing, they are very restrictive on cosmetic styles and technologies. The private route eliminates any waiting and can be carried out in the comfort of your own home if you wish.