Projection televisions (TVs) are often less expensive than other comparably sized models, but can require costly maintenance and repairs from time to time. Some of these repairs must be performed by professionals, though there are a few operations that a projection TV owner can typically perform. The only user serviceable part in many projection televisions is the lamp, though cleaning can often correct problems and calibration is sometimes an option as well. It is typically a good idea to consult the owner's manual before attempting any sort of projection TV repair to determine the correct procedures and ensure that no extended warranties will be voided by user servicing.
When a projection television display becomes dim or blurry, one option is to clean the interior of the unit. This type of projection TV repair can typically be performed at home if the correct precautions are taken. The first step in cleaning out a projection TV is to unplug the set, which will prevent electric shock and lessen the potential of damaging certain internal components. It is then possible to locate and safely remove the projection lamp panel.
There are several ways to clean dust and other contaminants from projection lamps, though camera lens cleaner, chemically propelled computer dusters, and blower units can all typically be used safely. If a chemically propelled cleaner is used, it is important to hold the can level so that propellant is not expelled onto the lamp or the interior circuitry of the television. In some cases cleaning the lamp will not be sufficient to restore the picture, in which case other types of projection TV repair may be necessary.
Another type of projection TV repair involves replacing a faulty lamp. Some televisions have warning indicators that show when a lamp is likely to fail, while others will simply fail to turn on. If a projection television is failing to turn on but there is an audible sound from the ignitor, the lamp is typically the culprit. Replacing a lamp is similar to removing it for cleaning, though it can also be necessary to take the bulb out of its case so that a new one can be inserted. Since lamps naturally become dimmer over time, this type of projection TV repair can also restore a television to full brightness.
In some cases, projection televisions can also require calibration if the colors are not displaying properly. This is a type of projection TV repair that sometimes has to be performed by professionals, though many sets have built-in tools. Even sets that have built-in tools can be difficult to calibrate properly without additional equipment, though purchasing a calibration disc is sometimes a low cost alternative. These discs typically provide instructional material on how to perform the calibration in addition to on-screen color panels and grey scale indicators.