Well in general the 5000T is not unreliable, it has been on sale for many years, if there was inherent problems with its recording features forums such as this would be full of complaints about missed or broken recordings.
It may be that you have a faulty box and you should try and get it replaced from the reseller, how long have you had it.
I am surprised when you contacted Humax that they recommended you get a 5000T rather than their new Aura box.
