Multi Media Projector - Lamp?

Question

I am interested purchasing a Multi Media Projector but I am concerned if the lamp dies it is defective, how can we as a consumer protect ourselves?

The suppliers tell me that the lamp warranty is for 90 days or 500 hours.

Please advise.

Thank you

Answer 1

Lamps on many consumer purchases (e,g, cars, trailers) are rarely covered by the equipment warranty.  This is because they can be abused and are considered to be replacable.

That said, a 90 day warranty on a projector lamp is standard. Some sellers also offer an extended lamp warranty for a reasonable amount. You may wish to consider one if you are worried.

Lamps will usually last 2-4000 hrs if treated correctly, but there are some precautions you should be aware of including:

- Dont' touch a lamp with bare fingers during installation (the oil can cause them to burn out)

- Make sure the projector is mounted so that heat can dissipate. This includes cleaning filters as recommended by the manufacturer.

- Make sure you avoid fast on/off cycles. It's important to leave a lamp on for at least several minutes before turning off, and always make sure the lamp cools down using the fan before unplugging the projector. Many projectors automate this process.

- Use an uninteruptible power supply (UPS) to ensure that if there is a power cut the lamp isn't suddenly switched off without a chance to cool. It has been reported that lamp life can be cut by as much as 20% from even one improper power down.

Other than that if a lamp doesn't fail soon after installation (covered by the 90 day warranty) it should be good for years of use at 2-3 hrs/day.