Why doest the remote control work intermittently or only from short distances?
There are a number of variables. To isolate the cause: You should check the batteries to ensure they are not weak or dead. If the remote is mounted in your vehicle you may need to change the mounting location in order to reduce obstructions. Check to be sure the antenna located on the opener is not obstructed. Foil backed insulation on the garage doors can also interfere with signal transmissions. As long as the insulation doesn’t completely keep the remote from working the energy savings is probably worth the small inconvenience you are experiencing. If not, contact a professional garage door installer to explore your options and recommend solutions.