An ELP Controller suggested that their handsets operate intermittently and should be replaced.

Narrative

Our handsets tend to work intermittently; many times we have to repeat our transmissions two or three times. Then when; or if; that doesn't help we have to use the foot pedal for that position in order for our transmissions to be heard by the pilot. On this occasion I was working a late night shift when Air Carrier was inbound. After clearing the Air Carrier for the visual approach I tried switching the aircraft to the Tower. After a couple of tries I heard the Tower Local Controller clearing the aircraft to land. I did not realize at this time that the aircraft had been having trouble hearing my transmissions. When the same aircraft departed the Local Controller switched the aircraft to departure. The aircraft called me I tried to answer but he did not hear me and switched back to the Tower. The Local Controller gave him a different frequency; he switched back and realizing what had happened I utilized the foot pedal to answer the pilot; who heard my transmission. If we could get new handsets this would cure most of these issues.