Quick answer: Size 312 hearing aid batteries are small zinc-air batteries (usually brown-coded) used in many mini BTE and RIC hearing aids. Most people get roughly 3 to 10 days per battery depending on streaming, power level, and wear time. For best performance, peel the tab, wait about 1 to 2 minutes, then insert with the flat side facing up. Store spares at room temperature, keep them away from kids and pets, and recycle or dispose of used batteries safely.
If your hearing aid manual says size 312, choosing the right pack is simple once you know what matters: the correct size, fresh stock, and good handling. On this page we cover what size 312 means, how long 312 batteries last, how to tell if a 312 battery is dead, and how to avoid the most common mistakes that shorten battery life.
Shop the correct size here: Size 312 hearing aid batteries. If you want to compare popular brands in one bundle, see Compare Pack Size 312.
What are size 312 hearing aid batteries?
Size 312 batteries are zinc-air button batteries designed for hearing aids. They activate when you remove the sticky tab, letting oxygen in through tiny air holes. This is why timing and storage make a difference.
How to recognise size 312
- Colour code: typically brown
- Label: the pack usually says 312
- Shape: small button battery, smaller than size 13 and 675
Which hearing aids use size 312?
Size 312 is common in receiver-in-canal (RIC) and mini behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids. The easiest check is the battery door marking or your user guide. If you are unsure, bring your device in and we can help you confirm the right size.
If your device takes a different size, start with these collections:
How long do size 312 batteries last?
Battery life varies because hearing aids do different amounts of work. As a practical range, many people see about 3 to 10 days from a size 312 battery.
What affects battery life most
- Streaming and Bluetooth: calls and music use more power
- Hearing aid power level: higher gain usually draws more energy
- Daily wear time: more hours in the ear means more drain
- Moisture and sweat: humidity can reduce performance
- Storage and freshness: older stock can run down sooner
If you use a lot of streaming or you live in a humid environment, you may prefer buying a little more often rather than storing large quantities for a long time.
How to insert a 312 battery correctly
Step-by-step
- Wash and dry your hands.
- Open the battery door fully and remove the old battery.
- Peel off the tab on the new 312 battery.
- Wait 1 to 2 minutes before inserting. This helps activation.
- Place the battery in the door with the flat side (plus) facing up.
- Close the door gently. Do not force it.
Common mistakes to avoid
- inserting immediately after removing the tab
- touching the air holes with wet fingers
- forcing the battery door shut
- storing batteries in the fridge or in a hot car
Signs your size 312 battery is running out
- sound fades, cuts in and out, or goes quieter than usual
- the hearing aid beeps or gives a low-battery alert
- streaming drops out sooner than normal
If you are not sure whether the battery is the issue, a tester can help. This is a handy accessory for travel kits: Rayovac hearing aid battery tester.
Choosing the best 312 hearing aid batteries
Most size 312 batteries are zinc-air and will do the job, but brand consistency and freshness matter. We recommend sticking with a brand that performs reliably for your device and buying from a supplier with good stock turnover.
Popular 312 options
How many packs should you buy?
If you change batteries weekly, one card can last about a month (depending on card size). If you change every 3 to 4 days, you may prefer to buy multiple cards at once. For many people, buying 2 to 3 months of batteries at a time is a good balance between convenience and freshness.
Storage, travel, and safety for button batteries
Storage tips
- keep batteries in the original pack until you need them
- store at room temperature in a dry place
- avoid loose batteries in pockets, bags, or drawers where they can short-circuit
Child and pet safety
Button batteries can be dangerous if swallowed. Keep packs locked away, and dispose of used batteries promptly. If you suspect ingestion, treat it as urgent and contact emergency services or your local poisons advice line.
FAQs
What colour is a size 312 hearing aid battery?
Size 312 batteries are usually brown-coded on the tab and packaging, and the pack should also be labelled 312.
Are size 312 batteries the same as PR41?
Many brands use PR41 as an equivalent code for size 312 zinc-air hearing aid batteries. The safest approach is to match the number 312 on the packaging and your hearing aid battery door.
How long should I wait after removing the tab on a 312 battery?
Waiting about 1 to 2 minutes after peeling the tab can help the battery activate fully and may improve performance.
Why do my 312 batteries die so fast?
Fast drain is commonly caused by heavy streaming, higher power settings, long daily wear time, moisture exposure, or older stock. If your battery life changes suddenly, check for moisture issues and consider a device check.
Can I store hearing aid batteries in the fridge?
No. Fridges and freezers can introduce moisture and temperature swings. Store batteries at room temperature in a dry place.
What should I do with used hearing aid batteries in NZ?
Keep used batteries away from children and pets, tape the terminals if you are collecting them, and follow local guidance for battery recycling or safe disposal.
Next steps
- Shop Size 312 hearing aid batteries
- Browse all hearing aid batteries
- Compare Pack Size 312
- Add a battery tester to your kit
- Read: hearing aid batteries in NZ
- Shop Size 13 hearing aid batteries
- Shop Size 10 hearing aid batteries
- Shop Size 675 hearing aid batteries
- hearing aid batteries near me
- batteries in hearing aids
- hearing aid battery tester
