Short answer: Find the lamp part number or the projector model, match it in the MyProjectorLamps search, let the projector cool completely, swap the lamp module, and reset the lamp timer. Most lamp swaps take about 10 minutes.
Step 1: Find your lamp
You need one of these:
- The projector model number - on the label on the bottom or back of the projector, and on the box or manual. Example: "Epson EB-1830".
- The lamp part number - printed on the old lamp module, or in the manual's "replacing the lamp" section. Example: "ELPLP96".
- The projector brand and the symptom (see the questions below) if you cannot find either number.
Type the model or part number into the search box on this site. Each lamp page lists the projector models it fits, so you can confirm your exact model before you buy. You can also browse by brand on our projector lamps by brand page, and many manuals are on our site: download your projector's manual from our projector manuals pages to see the lamp part number.
Step 2: Choose the right type of lamp
- Original lamp with module (housing): the lamp bulb already mounted in its plastic housing, ready to drop in. We recommend this for most customers: it is the easiest and safest to install and is covered by our 180-day guarantee.
- Bare bulb: only the bulb, without its housing, mainly for technicians who refit it into the old housing. We also sell bare bulbs for many models; see our bare projector lamps page. If your model is not listed as a bare bulb, contact us and we will check.
- Original lamps: our lamps are brand-new, factory-original parts. We do not sell counterfeit lamps. Our buying guide explains the difference between original, compatible and counterfeit lamps.
Step 3: Replace the lamp (about 10 minutes)
- Turn the projector off and let the fan finish. Wait at least 30 to 60 minutes for the lamp to cool completely - it can stay hot enough to burn you.
- Unplug the projector from the wall.
- Put the projector on a stable surface and find the lamp cover (usually on the top or side, held by one or two screws).
- Remove the screws and the cover.
- Undo the screws holding the old lamp module and pull it out by the handle, if it has one.
- Handle the new lamp by the housing only; do not touch the glass of the bulb with bare fingers.
- Slide the new lamp in until it clicks or sits flat, then tighten the screws.
- Put the lamp cover back and tighten its screw. Many projectors will not start if the cover is not fitted.
- Plug in and switch on. Reset the lamp timer from the projector's menu (usually Reset > Lamp Hours or Lamp Timer); the exact steps are in your manual.
- Keep the old lamp for disposal at an electronics recycling point. Projector lamps contain mercury; do not put them in household waste.
Step 4: Check it works
If the projector will not start or shows a lamp warning after the swap, see the questions below.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know it is time to replace my projector lamp?
Typical signs are a dim or yellow image, a lamp warning light or message, the projector turning itself off, or reaching the lamp's rated hours (shown in the projector's menu).
How long does a projector lamp last?
Most lamps are rated between about 2,000 and 5,000 hours, depending on the model and on the brightness mode you use (Eco mode lasts longer). The rated life is shown on the lamp page and in the manual.
Can I find the lamp if I only know the projector model?
Yes. Search the projector model; the lamp page for your model lists the right part number.
Why does my projector still show a lamp warning after I replaced the lamp?
Usually the lamp timer was not reset, the lamp cover is not fully seated, or the lamp is not fully clicked in. Reset the timer, check the cover and the lamp seating, then try again.
Is the lamp covered by a warranty?
Yes. Every lamp has our 180-day guarantee (refund within 30 days, replacement once tracking is confirmed for the product on its way back to us).
Do you have the manual for my projector?
Many manuals are available to download from our Manuals pages (look up your brand, then your model).
What if my model is not listed?
Contact us with the projector brand, model and (if you have it) the old lamp's part number and we will find the match.
Read the full details on our 180-day guarantee page.