Honest Hearing Aid Repairs, No Pressure
Hearing aid repairs at K&M Hearing Solutions are for anyone whose device isn't working quite right, whether you're an existing patient or bought your devices elsewhere, and whether they're NHS or private. We handle repairs with honesty and care, with no unnecessary pressure to buy new technology.
Our accredited audiologists assess every device and often fix common faults, such as blocked filters, worn tubes, or whistling, on the same day. Repairs outside the warranty are always explained clearly before any cost is agreed upon, so there are no surprises. Whatever the fault, you'll get a clear explanation and honest advice on whether a repair or new hearing aids make the most sense for you.
Our accredited audiologists assess every device and often fix common faults, such as blocked filters, worn tubes, or whistling, on the same day. Repairs outside the warranty are always explained clearly before any cost is agreed upon, so there are no surprises. Whatever the fault, you'll get a clear explanation and honest advice on whether a repair or new hearing aids make the most sense for you.
Common Hearing Aid Problems We See
Hearing aids are worn for long periods of time, in all weather, so wear and tear is normal, not a sign that something's gone badly wrong. Most faults have a simple explanation once we take a proper look. The table below sets out the symptoms we see most often, what's usually behind them, and how we put things right.
|
Symptom
Replace the battery; clean or replace the wax guard Likely Cause
Dead battery, blocked wax guard, or a full blockage What We Can Do Replace the battery, clean or replace the wax guard |
Symptom
Weak or muffled sound Likely Cause
Blocked microphone, worn tube, earwax buildup What We Can Do Clean components and replace the tube or filter |
|
Symptom
Whistling or feedback Likely Cause
Poor fit, wax buildup, or an incorrect dome or mould What We Can Do Check the fit, adjust the feedback manager, and refer for an ear check |
Symptom
Intermittent or crackling sound Likely Cause
Moisture, loose connections, worn components What We Can Do Dry and clean the instrument; check internal connections |
|
Symptom
Hearing aid has stopped working completely Likely Cause
Internal fault, water damage, battery corrosion What We Can Do Assess in clinic; send for manufacturer repair if needed |
What We Can Often Repair In HouseMany hearing aid faults are simpler than they first appear, and a good number can be sorted there and then, without sending anything away. Here's what we're typically able to fix during your visit:
|
|
NHS Hearing Aid Repairs
If your hearing aids were supplied through the NHS, they remain the property of the NHS throughout your use, and repairs are usually carried out by the provider who originally fitted them, rather than by us. According to NHS guidance, batteries and repairs for this technology are free through your original provider. If you are unsure who to contact, we are happy to point you in the right direction and can refer you to the audiology department at Royal Cornwall Hospital if needed.
When a Repair Is Worthwhile, and When to Consider ReplacementIf your hearing aid is still under warranty, repairs carried out by the manufacturer are usually free of charge, provided the fault is covered by the warranty terms. Outside of warranty, repairs are chargeable, and you may be liable for the full cost if your original package no longer covers the fault.
Manufacturers generally consider a hearing aid obsolete after five years. Beyond the warranty period, we can send hearing aids to our repair partner, Starkey, for assessment. If Starkey cannot repair it, there is no charge for the attempt, though this usually means that new technology becomes the more practical option. Physical damage outside warranty coverage, such as a cracked casing, will also incur a charge. While your hearing aids are away for repair, we can provide a loan pair to wear in the meantime where appropriate, so you're not left without support during the wait. |
|
Bring Your Hearing Aids In for an Assessment
Before assuming you need replacements, bring your hearing aids into our Truro clinic so we can take a proper look. Our audiologists will assess the fault, explain your options honestly, and advise on whether a repair or new technology makes more sense for your needs.
Manufacturer Repairs and Turnaround Times
Not every repair can be finished on the spot. If a hearing aid needs to be returned to the manufacturer, it's worth knowing roughly how long you'll be without it and what affects the wait time. Manufacturer repairs generally take 5 to 10 working days, though the exact time depends on the fault and the brand; more complex faults can take longer than straightforward ones.
We handle sending your hearing aid away carefully to keep it safe in transit, and we'll let you know once it's on its way back to us. Once the repair centre receives it, most repairs are returned by the next working day, though some faults take the full estimated time.
Repair Type and Typical Turnaround
We handle sending your hearing aid away carefully to keep it safe in transit, and we'll let you know once it's on its way back to us. Once the repair centre receives it, most repairs are returned by the next working day, though some faults take the full estimated time.
Repair Type and Typical Turnaround
- In-clinic minor repair (blocked filter, mic cover, cleaning) - Often the same day
- Receiver wire or tube replacement - Often the same day, subject to stock
- Manufacturer repair, in warranty- Around 5 to 10 working days
- Manufacturer repair, out of warranty, via Starkey- Around 5 to 10 working days
What to Expect During a Repair Appointment
Knowing what happens before you arrive can make the whole process feel far less daunting. A repair appointment is straightforward and unhurried, with our audiologist checking your instrument thoroughly before deciding on next steps. Here is what typically happens, from the first checks through to getting your hearing aid back in working order.
|
1. Initial Examination
Our audiologist will examine your ear with an otoscope, check the settings, and test the aid's performance. This helps identify whether the issue can be resolved on the spot or needs further action. 2. Keep Your Accessories
It helps to keep the original box and charging accessories on hand. Manufacturers sometimes request these when a hearing aid is sent away for repair. 3. Manufacturer Repair Form
If a manufacturer repair is needed, we will ask you to fill in a short form with your full name, address, and telephone number. This allows us to keep you updated and confirm a collection date once the repair is complete. |
4. Reprogramming After Repair
Afterwards, your aid may need to be reprogrammed to your prescription. We will always check this before you leave to ensure it performs as it should. 5. Honest Feedback
We aim to give you honest feedback about what has happened and what happens next. This might mean a same-day fix, a request sent to the manufacturer, or a referral for further investigation. |
Caring for Your Hearing Aids Between RepairsA little regular care goes a long way toward avoiding faults before they start. Hearing aids are delicate medical instruments exposed to earwax and moisture every day, and looking after them properly between appointments makes a real difference to how well they perform.
Most minor issues can be resolved without complex repair processes if they are caught early. Persistent feedback may indicate an earwax issue that needs a professional check, so it is worth having your ears examined rather than adjusting the settings yourself. Making sure the device sits correctly in your ear can also prevent whistling and reduce wear on its components. Here are a few simple habits that help:
|
|
Keep Your Hearing Aids Working Properly
Routine servicing catches small problems before they turn into bigger ones, and it only takes a short appointment. If you would like advice on your current hearing aids, want to discuss upgrading to newer technology, or would like to book an appointment, we can also do a home visit if it has been a while since your last check.
FAQ'S
How long does a hearing aid repair take?
Minor issues, such as a blocked filter or a new receiver wire, are often sorted during the same appointment. If your hearing aid needs to be sent back to the manufacturer, repairs typically take 5 to 10 working days, and we will keep you updated throughout the process.
Do NHS hearing aids get repaired at K&M Hearing Solutions?
These devices remain NHS property, and repairs and batteries are usually free through the service that originally fitted them. We are a private clinic, so we would generally refer you back to that service, though we are happy to offer general advice.
Why does my open-fit hearing aid keep whistling?
Whistling in this style is often caused by a poor fit, a blocked or worn tube, or earwax buildup. Book an appointment, and we will check the fit, the tubing, and your ear canal to find the cause.
What happens if my hearing aid is out of warranty?
Repairs outside the warranty are chargeable. If your hearing aid is more than five years old, the manufacturer considers it obsolete, and in this case, there's one specialist repairer we send it to. If they're unable to repair it, there's no charge for the attempt — though at that point we'd usually be looking at new technology rather than a further repair.
Can you repair hearing aids that were not bought at K&M Hearing Solutions?
Yes. As an independent provider, we support patients who wear hearing aids from any manufacturer or clinic, including those purchased elsewhere. Bring them in, and we will assess what can be done.
Do I need an appointment for a repair, or can I just call in?
We recommend booking an appointment so we can give it proper attention, though you are welcome to phone us first if you are unsure whether a repair is needed. Call our telephone number or use our online contact form to arrange a suitable time.
How can I look after my hearing aids to avoid repairs?
Regular cleaning, changing wax guards, and keeping them dry all reduce the chance of a fault developing. Having them serviced roughly every 6 months also catches minor wear before it turns into a bigger repair.
