yes, those remotes EAT batteries... One thing you can do, after you turn on and Set the A/C point the remote off to somewhere and/or put your hand over the TOP (I/R Emitter) and turn it off, the Remote is not needed during operation, only to turn on/off and adjust.
Second. I went with rechargable batteries in my Remotes, and my Comptuer Mice, I have a charger with a fresh set of batteries fully charged at most all times, When a device shows signs of low-batt.. I swap 'em for the fully charged pair and all is right with the world.
Home was where I park it. but alas the.
2005 Damon Intruder 377 Alas declared a total loss
after a semi "nicked" it. Still have the radios
Kenwood TS-2000, ICOM ID-5100, ID-51A+2, ID-880 REF030C most times