Article ID : 00295601 / Last Modified : 03/13/2025Print

I hear feedback (squealing, buzzing, static, etc.) on my OTC hearing aids

    Do you hear whistling, squeaking, squealing, buzzing, humming, chirping, beeping, static, or hissing from your OTC Hearing Aids? If so, you may be experiencing feedback.

    Feedback in hearing aids refers to the high-pitched squeal that occurs when sound escapes from the ear and is picked up by the microphone, which then re-amplifies it. You may have noticed this at a concert when a microphone gets too close to a speaker, resulting in a piercing squeal.

    Feedback can also happen if you cover the hearing aid with your hand while it's in your ear or if you hold it in your hand. This is a normal occurrence. However, true feedback should not be constant or present when the hearing aids are properly positioned in your ears.

     

    General troubleshooting steps

    If you hear feedback, it doesn't mean that the hearing aids need repair. Here are some things to check first:

    • If you have the CRE-C10 or CRE-C20 model and you are using vented sleeves:
      • Switch back to closed sleeves and check if the issue is resolved.
        Make sure to repeat the hearing profile check after switching to a vented or closed sleeve.
      • Revert any fine-tuning adjustments made after changing to vented sleeves.
    • In the app, set Fine Tuning to Feedback.
      • Fine TuningOthersFeedback
    • Check for wax: Wax causes feedback. Sound bounces off the wax and escapes the ear, prompting the feedback cycle.
      • Clean the microphones, hearing aids, sleeves, and case using the provided brush.
      • If the issue still occurs, replace the sleeve with a new one to see if this resolves the issue.
      • If you need more information, refer to the Clean and maintain the OTC Self-fitting Hearing Aids article.
    • Check the sleeve fit in the ear canal: If the hearing aid is not securely fitted in the ear, sound may escape, resulting in feedback.
      • We recommend using the tightest sleeve that feels comfortable.
      • Is the sleeve positioned properly on the hearing aid?
        • If you have the CRE-C10 or CRE-C20: Make sure the notch on the sleeve lines up with the drawing on the side of the hearing aid.
          CRE-C10
          CRE-C20
        • If you have the CRE-E10: Make sure the notch on the sleeve located on the outside of the hearing aid lines up with the microphones.
          CRE-E10: Align the notch on the outer sleeve with the hearing aid microphones
    • Check that the hearing aid is positioned properly in the ear.
      • Make sure the right hearing aid is in the right ear and is the left hearing aid is in the left ear?
      • If you have the CRE-C10 or CRE-C20: Is the pull string oriented at the bottom of the ear canal?
      • If you have the CRE-E10: Is the SONY logo facing the ceiling/at the top of the hearing aid when inserted in the ear?
     

    If the issue still occurs, please contact our friendly and knowledgeable OTC hearing aids support team for assistance.