Okay, so I’m not the most organized person in the world. But thanks to CE, I don’t have to be when it comes to troubleshooting my drive-thru equipment.

I’m one of those people who always says that one day I’ll get around to organizing my office. But when you manage several QSRs with round-the-clock drive-thrus, it seems like there’s never enough time to do it. So when I have problems with my drive-thru headsets or timer system, the odds of finding the manual I need to identify and resolve the issue are not good.

This used to be a huge problem until I switched to CE for all my drive-thru maintenance and repairs. Now, if I can’t locate the operating instructions for my HME belt-pac or audio system, I simply log on to the CE website and browse their extensive online library of manuals and reference guides. Once I find the right document, one click of the mouse is all it takes to download a .pdf file and find the information I need.

What amazes me is the size of the library. In addition to wireless communication systems, it also contains manuals for message repeaters, timer systems, battery chargers, accessories and even software. In short, everything I need to troubleshoot my HME drive-thru equipment.

Looking to upgrade your drive-thru headsets or timer system but don’t have the cash flow to purchase the equipment?  CE can help.

In today’s highly competitive QSR industry, it’s critical to keep your drive-thru equipment up to date. Otherwise, you can lose customers to competitors that have the technology to deliver faster, better service.  New equipment also tends to break down less, which reduces downtime and minimizes service problems in your drive-thru.

To help you obtain the drive-thru equipment and technology you need to grow your business and your profits, CE offers fast, simple financing. Available through Direct Capital, a leading lender to small businesses throughout the U.S., our financing plan gives you:

• Fast quotes
• Variable terms from 30 days to 7 years
• Flexible financing options

Autumn has arrived and winter is just around the corner. Now’s the time to protect your drive-thru equipment – and your profits – with CE’s Drive-Thru Protection Plan.

For one low monthly payment, you get unlimited repairs on your drive-thru headsets, timer systems or cabled intercom systems – any model and any brand. The plan also includes optional advance exchange on drive-thru system components to reduce downtime and keep your drive-thru operations flowing smoothly.

You can choose from different level of coverage and plan options based on your needs and your budget. And you don’t have to sign any long-term contracts in order to receive fast, efficient drive-thru repair services when you need them.

Why choose CE repairs?

• 40 years of drive-thru service and repair experience
• Factory-certified repair technicians
• Quality parts used in all repairs
• One monthly fee covers all drive-thru repair expenses

With the hectic rush of summer winding down and the flow of tourists dissipating, many of you are now able to catch your breath and examine your drive-thru equipment. It isn’t uncommon to find problems in your drive-thru headsets during the summer months. This is one of the busiest seasons of the year and when your employees are in a hurry, they are more likely to nick a belt-pac or ding a headset on kitchen surfaces. If you have any damaged equipment, whether a broken mic boom or poor audio quality, we have the perfect solution.   

CE helps drive-thru lanes stay open and owner’s pockets stay full by providing protection plans that cover everything from basic drive-thru headset repairs to base station exchanges and drive-thru timer repairs. Depending on your needs and budget, CE has the right fit for you. The best part of it –there are no long-term contracts! Here are some things you can expect with all of CE’s protection plans:

Fixed, Low Monthly Payments –One of the fears of equipment breaking down is the unexpected cost for repair. With CE’s protection plans you pay a fixed, low monthly fee so there will never be a question as to how much the repair will be.

Unlimited Repairs –With unlimited repairs, you don’t have to worry if more than one or two drive-thru headsets break down in the same month. CE will allow you to send in as many drive-thru repairs as you need to ensure your QSR is running the way you expect.

Reduced Downtime –Nobody has time for broken equipment, especially in a fast-paced environment like a quick-service restaurant. Many of CE’s protection plans include advance exchange. So if a drive-thru headset breaks down, or if your base station stops working, all you need to do is call CE and a replacement will be overnighted to you. Just return your broken drive-thru equipment once you’ve received your replacement.

Quality Parts and Service –CE uses the best quality manufacturer and aftermarket parts. To ensure every repair is done right the first time, a thorough, 35-point inspection is administered for each piece of equipment.

Any Model, Any Brand –CE repairs equipment for every major QSR drive-thru related brand, including HME, 3M and Panasonic. With this type of flexibility you can purchase protection plans for all of your drive-thru equipment at one place.

Did you know something as small as a drive-thru battery could have a significant impact on your sales? Since most quick-service restaurants have shifted toward using wireless drive-thru headsets, batteries have been playing an important role in how quickly and accurately orders are placed. When a drive-thru battery wears out, it can cause unnecessary distractions that will hamper your business. Here are three tell-tale signs your drive-thru batteries need replacing.

1. Static or Cut-Outs—When your batteries are no longer holding their charge, you’ll likely experience a noticeable change in your drive-thru sound quality. Audio cutting out or static in the middle of orders are good indications that you may need new batteries. One way to determine whether it is the drive-thru battery or the headset causing the problem is by swapping the battery with another one. If the static goes away, you’ve likely found your culprit.

2. Shortened Charge Cycle— Most drive-thru batteries last about 10-12 hours once they’ve been fully charged. This will allow employees to work an entire shift without changing batteries. If your employees find themselves having to change batteries after just a couple of hours of use, it might be time to purchase new ones. To get the most use out of the batteries, make sure they’ve gone through the entire charge cycle, and only use the ones that are fully charged.

3. Expired Date—Most batteries have an expiration date printed on them. If your drive-thru battery has an expired date it’s best to replace it with a new one. If you are unable to locate the expiration date on your battery, a good rule of thumb is to replace your batteries every one-and-a-half to two years.

If you’re experiencing any of the above conditions but still aren’t sure if you need new batteries, give CE a call at 877-731-0334. A tech support rep will troubleshoot the problem with you and recommend next steps. If you know you’ve got old batteries, take them to an e-waste recycle facility, or send them to CE for disposal. New batteries can be purchased through CE’s website or by phone. You might even find a buy-three-get-one-free promotion under the special offers tab.


Remember, small details like replacing old batteries can have a huge impact on your sales. Be sure to check your drive-thru equipment on a regular basis and don’t hesitate to call when you’re in need of technical support.

Has the aroma of barbecue ever made your mouth water? How about the sight of a big, juicy burger on TV or the sound of crackling bacon in a frying pan? The role these senses play in your food consumption doesn’t only have an impact on the specific food you choose to eat, but where you choose to purchase it. By exercising the five senses you’ll be sure to attract more customers to your drive-thru.
 

Sight—You only have one chance to make a lasting first impression. Since the first sense customers use when they pull into your restaurant is sight, you’ll want to make sure the perimeter of your building, including your drive-thru, is clean and spotless. Also focus on your drive-thru menu board. Ensure it’s brightly lit and clutter free. Use authentic, sharp-quality photos sparingly to entice customers to try new or higher-priced products on your menu.

Sound—Because communication is necessary in the ordering process, drive-thru sound quality plays a really important role in winning over your customers. If you haven’t upgraded to an HD Audio or digital drive-thru system, and aren’t maintaining your drive-thru headsets on a weekly basis, you could end up with detrimental sound-quality issues. To ensure customers are able to communicate their order without difficulty, test your headsets with other employees regularly before you open for the day, or during slow periods.

Smell—Nothing will turn a person away from hunger quicker than the smell of something foul. This is yet another reason to keep the parking lot and perimeter of your restaurant clean. If you currently store dumpsters next to the menu board or drive-thru lane, think about relocating them. If that isn’t an option, seal garbage bags as best as possible before placing (not throwing) them in the dumpster, and keep the lid closed to help reduce the escape of bad odors.

On the other hand, smells can also work for you. Try upselling dessert at the window if you’ve just pulled a fresh batch of cookies from the oven. With the aroma of freshly baked pastries filling their car, how could your customer say no?

“Touch”—Drive-thru efficiency doesn’t include cutting corners. The way an order is presented to the customer has more of an impact than you may think. If food isn’t wrapped properly or has spilled over in the bag when the customer receives it, it leaves  the lasting impression that your establishment is messy and unorganized. It also suggests that your employees don’t take pride in their job. A neatly packed order and courteous staff will earn you big points.

Another way to set your store apart from other restaurants is by adding a special touch to each order. Whether it’s an after-dinner mint, affirmation, trinket or board game on the packaging itself, an extra little take-away for the customer will be appreciated and remembered.
   

Taste—The number one element people rely on with their favorite quick-service restaurants is the taste of the food. Each menu item was designed to taste a specific way, and it should taste that same way every time. In order to achieve this, the ingredients need to be precise. Not only is it important to use the same and only the same ingredients each time, but the measurement of each ingredient should be the same every time as well.

Now that you’ve learned how to use all five senses to attract drive-thru customers, put them into practice and watch your sales soar. For more information on drive-thru maintenance, how to improve drive-thru efficiency, increase customer counts, or questions regarding any other drive-thru-related topic please call 877-731-0334, or check back next week to learn more.

Drive-thru maintenance is a critical part of running a quick-service restaurant. Most managers do a great job of keeping the exterior of the building clean and menu items and prices up to date, but many forget about the most important piece of the puzzle – their drive-thru equipment. Since ordering is impossible without communication, it is essential that your drive-thru headsets are always in tip-top shape. Whether you need a new drive-thru battery, ear foam replacement, or a complete drive-thru headset repair, CE has the solution for you.

Drive-Thru Repairs—If you have a broken headset or belt-pac send it to CE for repair. It will be fixed and shipped within 24 hours of receipt. Not only that, but you’ll also receive a four-month warranty with your repair. In the unlikely event that it breaks again within that time period, you’ll be able to send it in for a free repair.* For your convenience, CE provides free inbound shipping labels. Get yours here.

Advance Exchange—If you aren’t able to wait for a repair, CE will overnight replacement equipment to you for the price of a repair plus a small fee. Once you receive the replacement equipment it becomes yours, and all you have to do is send your broken equipment back to CE.

Accessories—If your drive-thru headsets are functioning but could use a little freshening up, CE also has an online shopping cart for small accessories. You can purchase anything from a new drive-thru battery or ear pad to microphone covers, belts and battery doors.

Technical Support—Aren’t sure what’s wrong with your headset, belt-pac or drive-thru timer? Call CE’s technical support at 877-731-0334. They will diagnose the problem and either help you fix it over the phone or provide next steps to take. For serious issues that require assistance on-site, or if you need help with installing any drive-thru equipment, CE also has a network of onsite technicians nationwide that can help.

From drive-thru repairs and accessories to technical support and nationwide installation, CE provides everything you need to keep your drive-thru up and running. If you have any questions regarding these services or would like to learn more, please visit www.cerepairs.com or call 877-731-0334.

Class isn’t quite back in session, but that doesn’t mean you can’t learn something new. Most quick-service restaurants spend anywhere from hundreds to thousands of dollars on drive-thru repairs each year. But did you know that you can cut that dollar amount down significantly just by performing routine maintenance on your drive-thru equipment? Here are a few simple steps that, if followed, will help dramatically reduce your drive-thru repair bill:

Avoid Liquids

Electrical components and liquids simply don’t mix. Keep water and any other solvents away from your drive-thru headsets. If a headset does fall into some form of liquid, take the battery out immediately and allow your headset to dry completely before attempting to turn it on again.

Battery Performance

For best sound quality, make sure you are using freshly charged batteries. If your drive-thru battery gets low, swap it out with a fully charged battery from the charging station. Also be aware of the age of your batteries. Most will have a manufacture date printed on them. If you’re operating with a drive-thru battery that is more than one and a half to two years old and you’re having issues with sound quality, chances are you may need new batteries. 

Clean and Test-

Routine cleaning is one of the most important steps of maintaining your drive-thru headsets. Pick one day a week and set time aside to thoroughly clean each one. Once you have finished cleaning, test each headset to make sure it’s working correctly. If you come across a broken or non-operable headset put it aside until you have completed testing the rest.

When a drive-thru headset repair is needed, place the broken equipment in a box and print out a free shipping label from our website. Simply attach the label to the box and drop it off at a UPS facility or hand it to your UPS driver. CE also offers current customer and new customer promotions. Check the special offers tab to see if there is a coupon for your drive-thru repair.

Check back next week to learn more about drive-thru maintenance. If you have a specific question regarding any of your drive-thru equipment, call CE at 877-731-0334.

During the summer months quick-service restaurants tend to receive a heavier flow of traffic through their drive-thrus. With the increase of customers, drive-thru headsets are usually pulling double duty and have a higher likelihood of malfunctioning or breaking down due to constant usage. To minimize the amount of drive-thru repairs this summer make sure you are doing drive-thru maintenance checks on a regular basis. One of the easiest ways to save on drive-thru headset repairs is by following these simple steps below:

1. Clean Exterior of Drive-Thru Headsets

Use a damp cloth to remove particles and grease from your headset. If you use a mild soap, apply it to the cloth rather than the headset to ensure excess moisture doesn’t get into the electronic components. Stay away from spray cleaners and solvents as they can cause corrosion.

2. Clean Crevices

Use a small, soft bristled brush between the buttons and in the crevices of your drive-thru headset to remove small crumbs. This will prolong the durability of your headset and decrease the chances of component failure.

3. Check Condition of Earmuffs

The earmuffs on drive-thru headsets should be replaced every 60-90 days or more frequently if needed. This will provide better drive-thru sound quality, improve comfort, and promote better hygiene. If you have several employees, give them the option to have their own set.

4. Avoid Water

If liquid gets in to a headset or belt-pac it can cause significant electrical damage. If this happens to your drive-thru equipment, power it off, take out the battery and let all components completely dry before turning the equipment back on. If you are still experiencing issues with your communicator contact Technical Support at 877-731-0334.

5. Clean Batteries

To help prevent static, use a cotton swab moistened with alcohol to clean the contacts on each drive-thru battery, headset and charger port (make sure the battery charger is unplugged before cleaning). Not only will this reduce static, but it will also keep your batteries and drive-thru headsets functioning at peak performance.

6. Test Drive-Thru Headsets

Listen for static while adjusting the mic boom. If you hear static, try using a different drive-thru battery. If you are still experiencing static, call Technical Support.

Next, grab a partner to listen on a separate headset. Push the “B” button on yours and count from one to five. If they are able to hear each of the numbers clearly have them repeat the last step back to you. Switch out headsets and repeat. If at any point you are unable to hear all of the numbers there could be a problem with your headset. Contact Technical Support to troubleshoot further.

7. Keep Equipment Cool

To ensure you’re getting the best from your drive-thru equipment, store in a cool, dry place. This will help prevent from overheating, strengthen the life of your drive-thru batteries, and keep moisture from getting into electrical components.  

By following these seven steps you will experience less drive-thru equipment failures, better drive-thru sound quality, and happier employees and customers. What this means for you is reduced number of drive-thru repairs, better order accuracy, and improved overall customer experience.   All of these combined are sure to result in a wealthier bottom line.

For more tips or questions on how to improve your drive-thru efficiency give CE a call at 877-731-0334.

Do you have different brands of drive-thru equipment? Not sure who to call when your equipment breaks down? CE is your total drive-thru solution. Not only does CE repair all major brands of drive-thru equipment, but they also have a trained technical support team that can assist with all of your drive-thru needs, no matter what brand of equipment you own. From programing your headsets to providing information on repairs, exchanges and onsite visits, CE has you covered.

Programming Equipment

Programming your drive-thru equipment can be a daunting task, especially if it’s been a while since you’ve done it. While some drive-thru timers and headset systems have become more user friendly over the years, there are still many out there that require extra help to get you back up and running. Many drive-thru systems require various combinations of button pushing or switch toggling to successfully program them. If you’ve misplaced the user’s manual it’s practically impossible to figure out the sequence without additional help. Whether it’s registering drive-thru headsets, setting up reminders in the message center, or re-installing drive-thru timers, CE’s technical support staff is able to help you every step of the way.

Troubleshooting Sound Quality Issues

Drive-thru sound quality plays an important part in order accuracy and speed of service. If the order taker or the customer has to repeat themselves because of problems with the audio, it can really slow things down. It also has a negative impact on the customer’s experience which is bad for business. If you are experiencing static, choppy audio or any other issues with your drive-thru sound quality call CE’s technical support team. They will troubleshoot your drive-thru equipment to find out exactly where the problem lies. Once the problem area is found, they will let you know what adjustments to make and give you advice on your next course of action if the problem is not resolved.

Providing Information about Repairs, Exchanges, and Onsite Visits

Not only are CE’s technical support reps skilled at troubleshooting equipment, but they are also very knowledgeable about when to send in repairs, when you should think about doing an exchange, and when an onsite technician is necessary. They can also provide you with the cost difference and timeframe of each service.

Next time you have a question about any of your drive-thru systems give CE a call at 877-731-0334. Technical Support is standing by to help with all of your drive-thru needs, from registering a headset, to assisting with drive-thru timer repairs and much, much more.  Best part of all, it’s free! What are you waiting for?