
One of the setbacks for using a projector is, having to purchase replacement lamps when the image becomes too dim to view comfortably. Projector lamps are not exactly very cheap, ranging from a few hundred to even thousands, depending on the model and type. Although we cannot avoid the inevitability of having to change lamps but there are certain pointers you can adopt to help prolong the life of these expensive lamps.
1. Do not keep spare lamp for excessively long periods
Condition of spare lamp may deteriorate even when not in use. Try to purchase the lamp(s) only when nearing the expected lamp hours on the current lamp. Note that most lamps warranty is only 3 months/ 500hrs, so keeping a spare lamp beyond that period will only be wasting the warranty. If purchasing a back-up spare lamp is really necessary, it is advisable to test the lamp and ensure it is working prior to keeping it in storage.
2. Do not touch the lamp glass during installation
Use a clean dry cloth during handling of the new lamp to avoid leaving residue on the lamp glass. Residues/ dirt left on the glass surface will cause concentration of heat during its high temperature operation, which may cause the glass to crack prematurely.
3. Normal & Eco Mode
Since new lamp condition is at its best, you may opt to operate the projector on ECO mode first, which takes lesser toll off the lamp. Switch to Normal mode only when the image becomes too dim for viewing comfort.
4. Clean filter regularly
Filters tend to be clogged with dust after some time. Cleaning helps to prevent excessive heat building up in the projector, particularly in the lamp housing. Overheating may cause lamp to crack and fail.
5. AV Mute Slide Lens Shutter
This is a function limited to certain projector models, which allow a user to slide a shutter across the lens to block the projection. User will usually find something to block the lens when they want to divert the audiences’ attention away from the projected image. This lens shutter not only fulfill the objective of blocking off the screen, when closed, the lamp is actually turned off hence saving unnecessary wastage of lamp hours.
6. Shut down projector properly
This means pressing the Power Off button and wait for the beeping sound to prompt users to turn off the hard switch. This is to allow the projector’s internal fans to sufficiently cool the lamp after use. Inadequate cooling will cause lamps to fail prematurely. Some projectors however supports instant off function, as there is an in-built mechanism to cool the lamp even after instant power off. This is especially useful for areas prone to power outage or users who do not have the patience of waiting for the cooling down time.
Ensuring the above will surely help conserve the life of your projector lamps and saving unnecessary expenditures.