Why Do Hearing Aids Whistle? Understanding Hearing Aid Feedback
We’ve all experienced it—a high-pitched whistling noise over the speakers at a meeting or concert. Usually, it happens when someone using a microphone gets too close to a speaker or amplifier, creating a feedback loop. The sharp sound can make anyone instinctively cover their ears.
If you wear hearing aids, you’ve likely experienced a similar hearing aid whistle or feedback at some point. It might occur when walking through a narrow hallway, bending down, putting on a hat or even giving someone a hug.
Why Does Hearing Aid Whistling Happen?
The reason is fairly simple. Your hearing aid amplifies sound and sends it into your ear canal. Sometimes, this sound escapes and gets picked up again by the microphone. The aid reamplifies it—creating a loop. That’s when you hear the whistling noise.
Even basic actions like inserting your hearing aids in the morning or removing them at night can trigger whistling. This is normal and often just the device reacting to nearby sounds. It doesn’t always mean there’s a fault, but it could signal the need for a clean or adjustment. If unsure, reach out to our team using the contact numbers on our website.
Causes of feedback and can you do anything?
Most modern hearing aids include feedback cancellation software. This feature detects and eliminates whistling as soon as it starts.
However, several other factors can cause feedback—and you may be able to fix them yourself.
a) Poor fitting – Domes or moulds that don’t fit well can allow sound to leak. Over time, your ear shape can change due to age, weight gain, or weight loss. If your moulds are old, they might no longer fit securely.
Solution: You may need new moulds or different-sized domes. Ask a family member to check the fit or visit your audiologist for a professional refit.
b) Too loud – If your aids are too loud, they can cause feedback. The extra volume pushes sound back into the microphone, causing the hearing aid to whistle.
Solution: Lower the volume. If that doesn’t help, your hearing may have changed—schedule a visit with your hearing care provider.
c) Split/hard tubing? – Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids with tubing instead of wires can experience wear and tear. Tubes that are hard, brittle, or split let sound escape and re-enter the microphone—creating feedback.
Solution: Replace the tubing or mould. If the hard tube pulls the mould loose, a new one may be needed for a better fit.
d) Earwax Buildup – Earwax can bounce amplified sound back into the hearing aid microphone. Blocked ears or clogged ear pieces can trigger whistling and reduce sound clarity.
Solution:
- Book an earwax removal appointment (we offer irrigation and microsuction).
- In the meantime, check that domes, receivers, air vents, and wax filters are clean. Replace them if needed.
e) Faulty or dislodged microphones – A faulty or dislodged microphone can also cause persistent feedback.
Solution: Contact your hearing specialist for repairs or replacement.
Final Thoughts on Hearing Aid Whistles
Thanks for taking the time to read this guide. We hope it helps you feel more confident in handling your hearing aid whistle issues. Whether it’s a simple cleaning or a professional adjustment, Hear4U is here to help make your hearing experience clearer and more comfortable.
