How to improve reliability of infrared signaling?
Show he exact part numbers you are using &amp; links to datasheet.

The criteria to compare with a TV RC for reliable communication are;


LED peak current 100mA pulse modulated
Modulation carrier frequency must be matched. ( 30~50kHz range in optional channels for chips.)
Preamble duration to allow AGC on Rx to lock onto signal level for the comparator to derive accurate binary levels on the 1st burst.


4. Also narrow emitter Beamwidth improves reception. 


LEDs use total angle, IR LEDs are specified using HALF ANGLE. 
Because the beam angle is so small it is measured from peak to side 1/2 power angle


( e.g. 4 to 15deg) it may not be centered so IR LEDs are always in Half-angle.   

Generally comparing outputs at 1/2 the angle, one can expect twice the output but with 10~20% lens loss, so it is not quite double at half the angle.