How to change RIC hearing aid wire

Receiver-In-Canal (RIC) hearing aids are among the most popular and discreet types of hearing devices available today. They use a thin wire to connect the main body of the hearing aid — which sits comfortably behind the ear — to the receiver (speaker) positioned inside the ear canal. The size and fit of this wire are crucial for both comfort and performance. RIC wires come in different lengths and power levels, ensuring that the device sits securely and delivers the right level of amplification for each user’s hearing needs.

A properly fitted wire allows the hearing aid to rest naturally behind the ear, while the receiver sits precisely in the ear canal without tension or bending. Over time, RIC wires may need to be replaced or resized due to technical issues. RIC wires are electrical components integrated with the receiver, and for this reason, their replacement must always be performed by a hearing care professional. The process involves replacing both the wire and the receiver as a single unit. 

Receiver-In-Canal (RIC) hearing aid wires come in different sizes and power levels to ensure a secure, comfortable fit and optimal sound delivery. The size you need depends on the shape and size of your ear, as well as your hearing loss profile.

1. Length sizes

RIC wires come in different lengths, usually numbered from 0 to 4 or 5 (though this varies by manufacturer).

• A shorter length (0–1) is for smaller ears or shorter distances between the top of the ear and the ear canal.
• A longer length (3–5) fits larger ears or deeper ear canals.

The correct size allows the hearing aid to rest naturally behind the ear while the receiver sits comfortably inside the ear canal — without pulling or bending the wire.

2. Power levels

Receivers also differ by power output, typically labelled as:

• S (Standard) – for mild to moderate hearing loss
• M (Medium) – for moderate to moderately severe hearing loss
• P (Power) or HP (High Power) – for severe hearing loss

Choosing the right power level ensures you get enough amplification without distortion or discomfort.

3. How to identify your size

You can usually find the size printed or engraved on the connector side of the receiver wire (where it attaches to the hearing aid). It’s often a number and a letter, e.g., “2M” means length 2, medium power.

4. When to replace or resize

RIC (Receiver-in-Canal) wires don’t need frequent replacement. They’re designed to last at least 1–2 years, and often longer if properly cared for.

If sound problems, physical damage, moisture, or corrosion occur, have your hearing care professional check or replace the wire. 

RIC (Receiver-in-Canal) hearing aids have a wire and receiver that are integrated, so replacement should always be performed by a hearing care professional.

During the appointment, your hearing aids are removed, the old wire and receiver are detached, and a new wire (with the correct length and power) is installed. The hearing care professional ensures the receiver sits properly in your ear canal, checks for optimal sound quality and no feedback, may clean the device, and answers questions you have.

The process is typically quick, often taking 5–10 minutes, and provides a secure, comfortable fit with reliable performance. 

RIC (Receiver-in-Canal) hearing aid wires are designed to be durable, but they do experience wear over time. The frequency of replacement depends on factors such as earwax buildup, exposure to moisture, physical strain, and overall usage. Most users may need to replace their RIC wires every 1–2 years, though some wires last longer with careful handling. You should consider replacement sooner if

• The sound becomes weak, distorted, or cuts out intermittently
• The wire’s outer coating cracks or bends sharply
• The receiver no longer sits correctly in your ear

If you notice any of these issues, contact your hearing care professional.