HEAT = BAD
The number one cause of lamp failure is excessive heat. Follow the instructions in the user manual for powering down the projector to ensure adequate cool-down.

Manufacturer TIPS
1.  Once the projector is turned on, wait at least 5 minutes before turning it off to allow the fan to properly cool the unit. After the fan has cooled the projector, unplug it and store it as desired.

2.  Don’t obstruct the air intake or exhaust vent. Paper shouldn’t be placed on top of a projector or where vents are located.

3.  Keep the exhaust vent at least 2 feet from any object.

4.  If the projector is built into a compartment, wall, ceiling, or shelf mount, the minimum distance requirement (usually at least 2 feet) listed in the user manual must be maintained.

5.  Clean the projector’s air intake filter every 3 to 6 months, or more frequently based on the operating environment.

6.  Don’t move the projector until the lamp has cooled (about 5 minutes).

7.  Run the projector for two weeks and/or 20 hours shortly after your purchase. If the lamp is defective, it’ll usually fail within the first 10 hours of operation. Lamp warranties typically last just 90 to 180 days from the date of purchase, rather than the first installation.

LAMP LIFE SPECIFICATIONS
Lamp life is measured to industry standards, specifying a 2 hours on and 15 minutes off cycle.

HOW LONG WILL IT LAST?*
• Halogen bulbs: 70 hours
• Tungsten: 1,000 hours
• Metal halide (high pressure mercury): 1,000 to 2,000 hours
• Xenon short-arc: 400 to 2,400 hours, depending on type
• UHP (ultra-high performance by Philips): up to 4,000 hours
• HID (high-intensity discharge): 6,000 hours
*(normal use, estimates only)

BASIC LAMP TYPES
Halogen Lamps — These bulbs produce a warmer image onscreen. This lamp technology has been around for some time, and is found in many different types of projectors. When these lamps burn out, they do so immediately, so it’s important to have a few backups ready to go.
Metal Halide Lamps — These lamps produce a characteristically cooler image onscreen. As they age, they tend to fade slowly over time. When the image on the wall doesn’t seem to be as bright as it used to be, it’s probably time for a new bulb.

2,000 hours = 1 year.
Under normal circumstances, a lamp rated at 2,000 hours should last about a year, operating 7 hours/day, 5 days/week.

THE DO’S AND DON’TS OF LAMP LIFE
Do…
• Use the projector in a normal environment (avoid extreme humidity, temperature, and dust).
• Clean the air/dust filters according the user manual. Blocked filters make the lamp overheat and fail sooner. Manufacturers can test for this kind of failure, and any warranty becomes invalid. Always ensure that there’s good airflow around the projector.
• Use a cloth or gloves for handling. 
• Operate in “economy mode,” if it’s available with your projector model.

Don’t…
• Switch off main power before cooling down the lamp, according to the user manual.
• Switch lamp on/off for short cycles (e.g., 5 minutes on, 5 minutes off.)
• Touch the lamp (in cold or operating condition) without gloves.
• Bump the projector when it’s operating.
• Move the projector during operating.
• Allow the projector to become overheated.