Brand new N66U - disappointing 5Ghz range

[pfm]

Got a new N66U in hopes of improving my 2.4ghz as well as moving up to 5ghz but unfortunately the 5ghz range is terrible. Is this what to expect ?
The router is perched up 6-7 feet from ground on a shelf in the mechanical/utility room and there is one wall (regular drywall construction) that you could say is in the way of the transmission. Antennas are prepped up like they should (center 90 deg. other two 45 deg). Devices I am having problem with are on the same floor. They do show "average" to high signal strenght though.
Now the thing is just 15-20 ft from the router all of my iOS devices (Ipad mini, Iphones) can barely manage to hold the signal but they work fine as I move close to the router. And at the same distance that these devices have trouble I have one laptop that works on 5ghz just fine all day long.
So what do you think might be the problem here, if any ? Is this just the nature of the beast ? or something is wrong ? because I was really not expecting it wont work just 15-20ft on the same floor.

 

[kbp]

mechanical/utility room ???
How much metal (heat ducts, return ducts, hot water tanks) are in this room?
I would try and move it just outside this room, even temporarily, and see if things improve.

 

[sm00thpapa]

Mechanical/Utility room is no place for a router. Move it and see what happens. Good luck.

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[pfm]

the "mechanical/utility" room is not that cramped. Sure there is metal ductwork and furnace and water heater in there (I know you guys are cringing right now) but there is about 5-6 feet distance between the router and all that. And its not quite in the line of sight of the transmission. Still is it really that bad ?

 

[sm00thpapa]

Personally I would move it. You want to try and have as much line of sight between router and devices. I know that's tough if not in the same room but stored in a closet is a big no-no. Try to relocate it if you can. Good luck.

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