Remote controls power essential items that are used every single day. This can include video game controllers which 214 million Americans use, a television remote or even the controller for your remote control car. Whatever device you’re having trouble with, there are several reasons that they may not be working properly and we understand how frustrating that can be.
To troubleshoot the issues you may be facing, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide on the main causes of remote control failure and how you can quickly fix them to get it back in working order. Read on to find out more.
Battery failure
Many remote controls are powered by batteries and while you can expect these to last over three months before they need replacing, sometimes this amount of time can be cut right down due to battery failure. This tends to happen to frequently used remotes like a TV controller and so, you may just have to deal with it from time to time.
Fortunately, there is a quick fix. Just head to the shops and pick up the right batteries and replace the ones in your remote. Be sure to dispose of the batteries properly to ensure they don’t end up in a landfill, which can be very dangerous.
Component damage
Remotes can be very durable and that means we can become a little careless with them over time. You may begin dropping them down and knocking them onto the floor by accident, but this can cause them damage if it continues to happen. This can lead to replacement parts being needed, for example, you may need to buy a new battery holder if the existing one is know longer working as this is the only way you’ll be able to supply power to the remote.
Other devices interfering
Technology isn’t always perfect and you may find that your devices from time to time may struggle to connect to the receiver because of interference. This could be your phone pairing to the wrong Bluetooth headphones for example. Well, the same thing can happen with remote controls too as another device or object may disrupt the signal between the controller and receiver. Make sure your remote always has a clear route to the receiver to reduce the amount interferences.
Distance
Unfortunately, your remote control can’t work miracles and reach the receiver from an unlimited distance and this may be one of the reasons it’s stopped working. This is nothing to worry about, however, as you can just move a little closer and it should begin working again. Alternatively, you may look into finding a range extender if you do need it to work better over longer distances.
