The most affordable drive-thru repair is the one that can be avoided altogether. That's why it's so important to perform regular maintenance on your drive-thru headsets and regular checks on your drive-thru speakers, drive-thru vehicle detectors and other critical drive-thru equipment.

Drive-thru headsets and belt-pacs are the workhorses of any QSR operation. They're made up of small parts and are subject to lots of wear and tear. Avoid costly downtime or a full-blown drive-thru repair with these quick maintenance tips for drive-thru headset systems:

• Prevent wear and tear on belt-pacs by disconnecting cables and connectors only when troubleshooting.

• Use clothing clips to prevent belt-pac cable from catching on something.

• Drive-thru equipment can be cleaned with a mild household cleanser sprayed on a damp cloth. Squeeze out excess liquid first; and do not spray cleanser directly on product.

• Use a soft bristle toothbrush to remove crumbs from crevices around buttons.

• Check date code on batteries and replace every 18-24 months.

• When adjusting headset microphone position, hold the boom at its base, not at the microphone tip.

• Store drive-thru equipment in a cool, dry place.

• Regularly check the outside speaker for sound quality and volume level. Microphones and speakers should be replaced approximately every three to four years. This is especially true in areas where the seasons are extreme, with lots of rain, humidity and snow.

These regular maintenance checks of your drive-thru equipment can prevent head aches and unforeseen costs in drive-thru repairs. If you have any further questions or concerns about a drive-thru repair call us here at CE Repairs at 877-731-0334 and a drive-thru repair expert will be able to assist you!