Hidden Costs in Projector Ownership

A hidden cost in owning and operating a home theater system is the eventual need to replace the lamp in your projector. Projector lamps, because of their precise construction and use of the rare gas, xenon, can cost as much as $350 to $500.

Here are some tips that can help you extend the life of your projector lamp.

• Avoid moving, shaking or bumping your projector as much as possible.
• Do not move it when it is still hot; let the cooling fan turn itself off before moving it.
• Do not touch the lamp glass with your fingers; oils from your hands can cause a burn out or explosion.
• Clean the air filter periodically (1-4 months) by blasting it with a compressed air can
• Place the projector where it has room to “breathe”, away from the wall or other objects
• Avoid extreme changes in heat or cold, as sometimes happens when left in a car. Allow the projector to warm up to room temperature before turning it on.
• Some projectors have an Eco-mode, to reduce the brightness. A lamp at 2000 lumens of brightness may last 2000 hours. But powered down to 1600 lumens, it can last 3000 hours. Try to get by with the Economy mode whenever possible.
• Projector lamps are not environmentally friendly. They may contain mercury, hazardous gasses and other non-decomposable materials. Check with your supplier’s office to see how to properly dispose of expended lamps.

Projector lamps are often covered by manufacturer warranties. Read the manufacturer’s literature when buying your replacement lamp. Following the above tips can greatly increase the use of a very expensive, consumable item in your home entertainment system.