"While the set I got from Costco were good units, the follow-up service left much to be desired.
I would not get any more at the ABQ Costco - but I believe the problem was limited to the one outlet."

You should complain to Costco. You can stop by the hearing counter anytime if you a problem with your hearing aids without an appointment. They also replace the ear inserts and test your hearing aids every 60 days. You just drop them off at the counter shop for about 15 minutes or so and they're done.