Published on October 8th, 2021 | by Ali Dino
0How to Keep Your Projector in Perfect Working Order
Whether used in a home theatre setup, entertainment venue, classroom, boardroom, or anywhere else, a projector is a versatile piece of equipment that can provide years of use. Since they do require some investment, it’s worthwhile to know how to maintain a projector and ensure they perform optimally.
From knowing where to buy replacement projector lamps to keeping the correct products on hand for regular cleaning, the following tips will help you maintain your projection equipment and save the need for unnecessary repairs in the long run.
Keep Your Projector Cool
Modern projectors utilize a lot of technology that means they run much cooler and last longer than older equipment. However, it’s still important to place and run a projector in a way that it is allowed to run all necessary cooling cycles. All vents should be kept clear when the projector is turned on. Any mounting hardware or stands should permit the free flow of air. When the projector is powered down, it’s important not to unplug it right away. This is because most projectors will run a final cooling cycle before fully turning off. If this function is not allowed to complete, the residual heat can damage the projector’s components and interfere with its performance.
Keep Your Projector Clean
All projectors should be cleaned periodically to keep them clear of smudges, build-up of dust, and other debris that can potentially damage their components. Some projectors may have very minimal cleaning requirements and only need a light dusting or spot cleaning on occasion, while others may require a more involved process for clearing dust, lint, or other debris. Always check the manufacturer’s manual for your specific unit to confirm the most appropriate cleaning methods and products.
In general, projectors should be cleaned when they are turned off and completely cool. It’s best to wait a minimum of 30 minutes from the time the projector is powered off before attempting to touch it for any purpose.
Any surface dust or debris should be removed with a soft microfiber cloth that is either dry or slightly damp. Remember to never use air dusters, hairdryers, or any cleaning aid that might push dust deeper into the interior of the projector. Instead, use a vacuum on a lower power setting to suck dust and lint out of the projector’s vents and housing.
A projector’s lens should only be cleaned using an optic lens cleaner and a non-abrasive, microfiber cloth. Remember to never spray any part of a projector directly with cleaning fluid. Always apply the liquid to a cloth and then lightly wipe the surface of the lens.
To prevent the build-up of dust, it’s advisable to cover the projector or store it in a case when it’s not in use. This means that cleaning will not be needed as often.
Know When And How To Replace Projector Lamps
Modern projectors will utilize lamps and bulbs that operate for thousands or tens of thousands of hours. In some cases, they will easily last as long as the life of a projector, but occasionally replacements will be needed.
Depending on the equipment, a projector bulb can be replaced by simply removing and inserting a new bulb, or a special lamp and housing unit may need to be specially inserted into the projector.
Before attempting to replace a bulb, always consult the projector’s manual or manufacturer’s website to learn the specific method for bulb replacement.
Once the right projector bulb replacement type has been identified, make sure to only use that specific bulb or lamp. Although it may be tempting to buy a discount lightbulb that’s said to be comparable to brand-name or a specially authorized bulb, using an inferior or counterfeit product could damage the projector. The better option is to choose an authorized distributor that provides replacement projector lamps at competitive prices.
Know When To Turn To A Professional
Not all projector maintenance can be done without professional tools and knowledge. Knowing when to reach out to a professional can save a lot of time and ensure your projector functions properly for years to come. Attempting to perform repairs and maintenance through unauthorized means can void some warranties, so when in doubt, consult the manufacturer or an approved and qualified service provider.