I've noticed my IR signal strength is extremely weak. If my foot is between the remote and my components, the signal is blocked and the remote must be pointed pretty much directly at the components. Is this normal?

My HTM/UR remotes had very powerful IR signals--I could aim the remote in the opposite direction and they would still work and a foot would never create an issue.

Perhaps it's the rechargeable battery? I've noticed that starts to fade pretty quickly.