LED and solid-state laser projection will be the future of projection, but it’s still too early to wave ‘buh-bye’ to the lamp-based projectors we’ve come to know so well. With good reason, too; replacement projector lamps are no longer sold at hostage prices, and improvements to lamp technology means your lamp will last longer than ever before. LED and solid-state laser projection will be the future of projection, but it’s still too early to wave ‘buh-bye’ to the lamp-based projectors we’ve come to know so well. With good reason, too; replacement lamps are no longer sold at hostage prices, and improvements to lamp technology means your lamp will last longer than ever before.
Lamp life for a projector will vary based on many factors including application, installation, intake of cool air and exhaust of hot air, usage and proper maintenance. Heat buildup can reduce lamp life and even damage your projector. Here are some tips to help your projector lamps last longer.
- Once you turn off your projector, wait at least five minutes before unplugging to allow the fan to properly cool the unit.
- Do not obstruct the air intake or exhaust vent. Paper should not be placed on top of a projector, or where vents are located.
- Keep the exhaust vent at least two feet from any object.
- If the projector is built into a compartment, wall, ceiling or shelf mount, the minimum distance requirement (usually at least two feet) stated in your owner’s manual must be maintained.
- Clean the projector’s air intake filter every three to six months — or more frequently — based on your operating environment.
- Do not move your projector until the lamp has cooled (about five minutes).
- Run your projector for two weeks and/or 20 hours shortly after your purchase. If the lamp is going to fail, it will usually occur within the first ten hours of operation. Lamp warranties typically last just 90-180 days from the date of purchase, rather than the first installation.
- When you purchase a replacement lamp for your projector, remove the existing lamp and use the old lamp as your spare. If your projector is new, test the original lamp for the two weeks/20 hours before removing and storing as a spare. Schools and IT departments may wish to print these tips and keep them with projectors for end-users to reference.
- Don’t forget about surge protection. Beyond simply protecting your projector, a good surge protector will also protect your bulb from power surges, which can lower lamp life.
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