Projectors are used in homes and offices for a variety of different purposes. From presenting an idea to the board to enjoying the latest blockbuster, projectors are increasingly used to deliver the images and videos. With such diversity in use, no wonder that there are many complains of lamp burnouts and the costs of replacement lamps.

Manufacturers usually provide an estimate of the life of the lamp in hours of operation. Many people take them for granted without reading the fine print that states that this estimate is valid under "ideal condition of usage". Since these conditions cannot be provided in a home or office, replacement lamps remain the number one annoyance of many projector owners.

To install replacement lamps, many owners call the store or company they have bought the projector from. The bill usually comes to $500 or more, depending upon the price of the lamp and the service charges. Many owners do not realize that it is very easy to replace a burnout lamp. The procedure is very simple and requires no special tools.

To install replacement lamps, you will require a manual screwdriver, a pair of rubber gloves and a soft cloth. Avoid an electric screwdriver at all costs. The vibration of an electric screwdriver will damage the circuit boards. Keep the rubber gloves on at all times. This will protect the lamp and the lamp assembly from skin oil.

Find out the model number of your projector. Even the projectors manufactured by the same company take different replacement lamps. It is very important to get the correct amp for your projector. A wrong lamp may fit snugly but can blow out the moment the projector is turned on. Many user manuals list the model numbers of the lamp installed. Lamps can be bought online directly from the manufacturer or from third part retailers. Many stores help you find the correct lamp, once you told them the make and model of your projector.

Once you have the replacement lamps, the actual process of replacing the lamp is straightforward. Remove the power cord from the outlet and allow the projector to cool down for ten minutes. The lamp compartment is located on the underside of the projector. Remove the screws (usually two or four, depending upon the model) and keep them in a cup. It is very easy to lose these screws and very difficult to find them. Very gently pull the lamp assembly and disconnect the power connections to it.

Thoroughly clean the lamp compartment and the lamp assembly. Dust is the number one reason for the lamp burnouts and replacement lamps. Once you are done, install the new lamp into the lamp assembly and reconnect the power connections. Make sure that the connections are seated correctly and tightly. Replace the lamp assembly into the lamp compartment. Replace the cover and the screws. Reconnect the power cord and switch on the projector. Let it run for about five minutes to confirm that the lamp is correctly installed. You are done!