Projector Lamp Life

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE EXPECTED PROJECTOR LAMP LIFE?

The range of expected life ratings for projector lamps is 750 to 6,000 hours with an average of 2000 hours. These lamps do not simply "burn out" at the end of life like halogen lamps. They will slowly grow dimmer and less effective over time. The rated life is what the manufacturer estimates will be the number of hours the lamp will produce at least 80% to 90% useful brightness.

Most projectors have a built-in lamp hour counter. Consult the counter to help anticipate the best time to purchase a replacement. When a replacement is purchased, install it and re-set the counter to zero. Store the old lamp for back-up in case there is a premature failure of the new lamp.

WHAT USER PRACTICES CAN HELP EXTEND PROJECTOR LAMP LIFE?

Lamp life is affected by temperature, altitude, air pressure, humidity and physical impact.Here are some best practices to help extend lamp life:

1. Once the projector is turned on, wait at least five minutes before turning it off to allow the fan to cool the unit.
2. Do not move the projector until the lamp has gone through the five minute cooling period at the end of operation.
3. Make sure the air intake and/or exhaust vent is not blocked during operation.
4. Keep the exhaust vent at least 2 feet from a wall or any object. For fixed projector installations pay particular attention to this requirement.
5. Clean the projector's air intake filter every three to six months depending on frequency of operation.
6. If provided, use the "economy mode" when operating the projector.