RIC hearing aids maintenance & care

A RIC hearing aid (Receiver-in-Canal) is one of the most common and versatile types of hearing aids, designed to provide clear, natural sound in a discreet design. In a RIC device, the microphone and processor are housed in a small case that sits behind the ear, while the receiver (speaker) is placed inside the ear canal and connected by a thin wire. This design helps reduce feedback and improves sound quality, especially for high-frequency hearing loss.

Main parts of a RIC hearing aid include:

• Microphone: Captures surrounding sounds.
• Processor (amplifier): Adjusts and amplifies sound to match the user’s hearing needs.
• Receiver (speaker): Delivers processed sound directly into the ear canal.
• Thin wire: Sends the processed sound from the behind-the-ear unit to the receiver.
• Ear dome or earmold: Keeps the receiver securely in the ear canal and ensures comfort.
• Battery or rechargeable cell: Powers the device.

Key features of RIC hearing aids:

• Discreet and lightweight design.
• Suitable for mild to severe hearing loss.
• Advanced options like Bluetooth connectivity, rechargeable batteries, and directional microphones.
• Natural sound quality with reduced occlusion (plugged-ear effect).

RIC hearing aids balance performance, comfort, and aesthetics, making them a popular choice among users.

The receiver area is the most exposed to earwax and moisture. Here’s a safe cleaning routine:

• Inspect the dome: Check the silicone dome (or earmold) for visible wax or debris. Wipe it gently with a dry cloth or specialized wipe. Replace the dome if it looks worn or clogged.
• Check the wax guard: Most RIC receivers have a small wax filter. If it appears blocked, replace it rather than trying to clean it directly.
• Use a soft brush: With the cleaning tool provided by your manufacturer, gently brush around the dome and receiver opening. Always hold the hearing aid facing downward so particles fall out instead of back inside.
• Avoid liquids: Never use water, alcohol, or cleaning solutions on the behind the ear device, receiver or wire, as moisture can damage the electronics.
• Routine care: Clean the receiver area daily, ideally in the morning before wearing the aid, when earwax is dry and easier to remove.

If the receiver remains blocked after cleaning and replacing the wax guard, it may need professional servicing. If you purchased your hearing aids from Miracle-Ear, take advantage of the unlimited care* that is included with most purchases.

Earwax is the most common cause of blocked or weak sound in RIC hearing aids. Regular cleaning helps prevent it:

• Wipe the dome: Use a soft, dry cloth or a cleaning wipe to gently clean the dome daily.
• Brush the receiver opening:  Use the small brush provided with your hearing aid to remove wax from the opening. Hold the device with the dome facing downward so debris falls out, not back inside.
• Check the wax filter: Replace if clogged. Do not try to clean it directly.
• Clean the vent (if present): Some domes or earmolds have small vents. Use the thin cleaning tool to clear any wax.
• Replace domes regularly: Change domes every 2–3 months, or sooner if they become discolored or stiff.

If sound is still weak after cleaning, the wax filter may need replacing, or the hearing aid may require professional care.

Once a week, take a few extra minutes to give your RIC hearing aids a deeper clean:

• Deep clean microphone openings, domes, and receiver tips using the small brush from your cleaning kit.
• Check and replace wax filters if needed, to prevent muffled or weak sounds.
• Use a thin cleaning wire to clear vents.
• Inspect the domes and receiver wire for cracks, wear or discoloration.

Monthly maintenance focuses on replacing worn parts and ensuring long-term reliability:

• Replace the wax filters to ensure the receiver remains clear. Your hearing care professional may recommend you do this more frequently based on your earwax levels.
• Replace domes or earmolds if they appear stiff, worn, or discolored.
• Inspect the receiver wire and housing for cracks, bends, or loos parts.
• Check the charging contacts on rechargeable models to make sure they are clean and functioning properly.

Monthly upkeep helps stop problems before they affect your hearing. If you notice any issues with your devices, contact your nearest Miracle-Ear for a maintenance visit.

How you store and handle your RIC hearing aids plays a key role in their performance and durability. Always remove your devices before showering, swimming, or spending time in saunas, since moisture can quickly damage the receiver and electronics. Apply hairspray, deodorant, or lotion before putting your hearing aids in place to prevent residue from settling on the domes or microphone openings.

When not in use, keep your RIC hearing aids in a protective case or drying kit. This reduces moisture build-up and helps prevent accidental drops. If your devices use disposable batteries, open the battery compartment overnight to allow ventilation. For rechargeable models, return them to the charging station as recommended by the manufacturer.

Avoid exposing your hearing aids to extreme heat, such as leaving them in a parked car in summer or setting them near a heater. If you travel often, consider carrying a portable drying kit to keep them safe from humidity and sudden temperature changes.

By following these storage and handling tips, you can preserve consistent sound quality, protect sensitive components like the receiver and wire, and extend the lifespan of your RIC hearing aids.

*Cleanings and in-office service are always free. Miracle-Ear® lifetime aftercare not included with hearing aids purchased utilizing some insurance benefits. See store for details.