When searching for how to replace a projector bulb, you are really looking for instructions on how to change the lamp module, not just the lamp. Testing the projector lamp and changing it on its own provides more safety issues and exposes you to a greater risk of damage. Because of these factors, many consumers prefer to change the lamp assembly, which often comes with a new filter. Read on to learn these simple steps to remove and replace the lamp or bulb on the best projectors.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Installing a replacement lamp in a projector requires replacing the lamp assembly alongside the bulb itself.
- You will need a screwdriver, a replacement bulb, and a soft, flat surface.
- When changing the bulb, there are some safety risks, including premature lamp failure or turning the light on before the lamp cover is replaced.
How to Change a Projector Lamp
You should know that changing a projector lamp takes only a few minutes and remains a simple process, but it’s a different process to dispose of a projector lamp. You need to make sure you buy a replacement projector lamp that matches your projector model, and you can find this information in your user’s manual or possibly on the manufacturer’s website. The actual process of changing the bulb should only take a few minutes. If you’re curious about replacing other parts of the projector, check out how to replace a projector lens.
Insider Tip
The original lamp and replacement projector lamp should slide into and out of the lamp chamber quickly and without much resistance.
Safety Concerns
Make sure you do not touch the glass surface of the lamp assembly while changing the light bulb, as doing so shortens the lamp life. This shortening may have something to do with the fact that oil from your fingers affects the life span or cause premature lamp failure. Additionally, you should ensure you replace the cover on the lamp chamber before attempting to turn the projector on. If you do not, the light may shine through and cause safety risks for you. Finally, check out this article to find out how many watts does a projector use.
Steps to Replace a Lamp Assembly
- Unplug the power cord of your projector. Unplugging your power cable ensures that no electricity courses through the device while you change the lamp module. If you left it plugged in and there was a power surge, you could harm yourself.
- Wait at least one hour before attempting to take the lamp out. Some manufacturers list shorter time frames on their website, but you mostly want to make sure that the lamp bulb has cooled before you attempt to change it. Of course, if you were not using your projector within an hour of deciding to change the lamp bulb, you might not have to wait as long.
- Flip the projector over so you can see the bottom of it. Make sure to put the device on a soft, flat surface like a blanket or towel laid on a table. Using the towel or blanket reduces the risk of the projector jolting components out of place. You should also use a stable surface.
- Unscrew and remove the lamp cover on the back using your screwdriver. If your projector doesn’t have a cover with screws, you likely can slide it off easily. Make sure to put any components where you can find them. Some projectors have a back cover and a lamp cover, so you will need to remove both in these cases.
- Remove or loosen the screws holding the lamp bulb and its module in place. Most manufacturers recommend loosening the screws in this step. One even says you should not fully remove the screws here. Instead, you want to know that the screws can be retightened to hold the light in place.
- Replace the lamp module. Lift the original lamps out of the device. It should slide out when you pull directly up. The new lamp module will slide into the same place and go in easily.
- Put the device back together. Next, retighten the screws near the lamp bulb. This step should be relatively straightforward. Hopefully, the screws and lamp cover are nearby and easy to reach. Replace both before turning the projector on.
- Plug your projector into a power source. Then, make sure to reset your lamp timer as your device’s user manual describes. Some devices require a reset before you fully turn on your projector, but the overall process depends largely on the brand.
Warning
Some manufacturers require you to reset the lamp timer before powering it on fully, so check your user’s manual to find out what type of device you have.
F.A.Q.S
When should I replace my lamp?
You should replace your lamp if you notice flickering or dimming of the image or an indicator light or message is visible. If your projector starts but doesn’t shine a light, you should check your bulb as well.
How can I maximize the lifespan of my projector?
You should use “Eco” mode if your projector has one, which reduces energy use. Additionally, make sure to turn your projector off when you are not using it.
Can you just replace the bulb in a projector?
You can replace just the bulb in your lamp assembly, but it is generally considered easier to replace the entire assembly. You also have more certainty that you will accurately replace it if you replace the entire module.
STAT: In the third quarter of 2016, about half of the global projector market adopted the digital light processing (DLP) projector technology. (source)
