How to handle hearing aid domes and vents

For Receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aids

1. Hold the hearing aid receiver firmly with one hand.
   
   
2. Use your other hand to gently pull the old dome off the end of the receiver.
   
   
3. Take the new dome and align it with the end of the receiver.
   
   
4. Press the new dome firmly onto the receiver tip until it feels secure.
   
   

For Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids with thin tubing

1. Hold the thin tube carefully and remove the old dome by pulling it straight off.
   
   
2. Take the new dome and slide it onto the end of the tubing.
   
   
3. Ensure the dome is fully seated by pressing it down until it is securely in place.

For In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids with custom domes

1. Pull the old dome off gently, ensuring not to twist it.
   
   
2. Align the new dome with the hearing aid speaker and press it on.
   
   
3. Make sure the dome sits snugly and evenly on the hearing aid.

For regular (non-custom) domes

1. Gently remove the dome from the hearing aid receiver or tubing.
   
   
2. Use a soft, dry cloth or tissue to wipe away any visible wax or debris from the dome.
   
   
3. For stubborn wax, use a soft-bristled brush to carefully brush away particles.
   
   
4. Reattach the dome securely onto the hearing aid receiver after cleaning.

For custom domes or thin tube domes

1. Keep the dome attached to the hearing aid and gently brush the dome with a soft-bristled brush, focusing on areas with wax buildup.
   
   
2. Use a wax pick tool, if available, to remove any wax lodged in small crevices.
   
   
3. Carefully inspect the dome after cleaning to ensure no wax remains and that the dome is securely attached.

Consult your audiologist

• The best way to determine dome size is through a professional fitting.
  
  Your audiologist can measure your ear canal size and recommend the appropriate dome.

Check the fit and comfort

• Insert the current dome into your ear and assess how it feels.
  
  It should sit securely without causing discomfort or pain.
  
  If the dome feels too loose or slips out easily, consider trying a larger size.
  
  If it feels tight or causes soreness, try a smaller size.

Observe sound quality and feedback

• A properly sized dome should offer clear sound without feedback or distortion.
  
  If you notice a whistling sound (feedback) or muffled audio, this may indicate the dome is either too large or too small.

 

Try different sizes

• Some hearing aid kits come with multiple dome sizes.
  
  Test each size to determine which fits most comfortably and provides the best sound quality.
  
  Make sure each dome snaps securely onto the receiver to avoid it detaching during use.

It depends on your environment and your earwax production.

In general, aim for these guidelines:

• Heavy earwax buildup or humid environment
  
  Replace filters every 1-2 weeks.
  
  
• Normal environment and earwax
  
  Replace filters every 3-4 weeks.
  
  
• Dry environment and minimal earwax
  
  Replace filters every 6-8 weeks.
  
  

Signs you need a new filter:

• Visible dirt, wax, or debris on the filter.
  
  
• Discoloration of the filter.
  
  
• Muffled sound from your hearing aid. 

Use a thin wire or the cleaning brush that comes with your hearing aid to clear the vent. If using a thin wire, insert it into one end, and push it through until it comes out the other end. Be sure to wipe off any debris with a cloth or tissue before removing the wire from the vent.