In this article, you will learn how to clean a projector filter step by step, things you should avoid during cleaning, and when to replace it.
A filter is not only the main component to save your projector’s inner components from dust but also provides sufficient holes to flow air properly. If the filter is blocked with a layer of dust, your projector may heat up and can damage several inner components like a lens, ICs, etc.
To flow maximum air with 100% efficiency, we have to keep cleaning our filter whenever it is needed; it will not only prolong the life of your projector but also perform better.
A dusty air filter can lead to projector overheating as well.
Let’s start the cleaning process: How to Clean a Projector Filter – A Step-By-Step Guide
Before starting cleaning, wear a pair of gloves and a face mask if you have a dust allergy.
#1. Power off the projector and unplug the projector for at least 30 minutes.
#2. Once the projector cools down, locate the compartment of the projector, usually, it is situated on the left or right corner of the projector. After unscrewing the door, slide out the filter.
#3. Use compressed air or vacuum with low pressure to remove the dust; if the dust is still available, you can use a soft brush to remove it completely.
Caution: don’t use a hard brush or high-pressure compressed air; it damages the holes of the filter. A damaged filter will allow the dust particles to be removed.
Keep using spray gently from 4 to 6 inches away so that the holes of the filter remain unaffected.
#4. If your projector also has a sponge filter, keep it clean to get maximum safety.
#5: spray some compressed air in the compartment and vents of the projectors.
#6: slide in the filter; that’s it; your filter’s cleaned now.
Things We Should Avoid During The Cleaning
- Don’t ever use detergent, water, or other chemicals, as filters have a sensitive layer of mesh that can be damaged by applying these kinds of stuff.
- Don’t use high-pressure compressed air.
- If you are cleaning with your hands, make sure to clean it gently don’t rub the mesh of the filter with nails.
- Never use a hard brush; a hard brush will break the mesh or enlarge the holes.
When Should I Clean My Projectors Filter?
It depends; if you are going to use it outdoors, your room needs frequent cleaning, and your projector is placed beside the AC or exhaust, it may need frequent cleaning; however, if your projector is placed in a safe place away from dust, it may need less cleaning.
I do cleaning at least twice a month to ensure my projector is safe. You have to monitor it at least once or twice a month whether it needs cleaning or not; if it needs to, invest your 5 minutes; otherwise, you can enjoy your serials or gaming.
Warning Signs: Modern projector has a temperature sensor that indicates that the temperature of your projector becomes too hot; make sure to check out your projector’s filter immediately if your projector blinks.
LCD projectors are sensitive to heat, so make sure to monitor their filters strictly.
You might also want to know how to clean the lens and screen of a projector.
When Should I Replace My Projector’s Filter?
If you find that the inner components of your projector become too dusty, make sure to check out the holes in the filter. If the holes are enlarged than normal, make sure to replace them.
Moreover, if the filter is covered with a layer of hard dust that canít be wiped with a brush or vacuum. Better to replace it; otherwise, you may damage the filter to clean it properly.
How to Keep My Projector’s Filter Away From Dust?
Below are tips I personally use to keep away my projector from dust.
- Keep your projector covered with a cloth whenever you are going to clean your room.
- Make sure to place your projector away from the AC or room ventilation.
- Keep the vents of your projector clean periodically, and at least remove the settled dust.
- If you want to use it outdoors, make sure to use it in a clean place; if you are going to use it in a desert, there is no possible way to protect it from dust.
Wrapping up
Generally, the cleaning process of the projector takes 10-15 minutes for newbies. However, an experienced person like me can do their work within 5 minutes.
Filter cleaning is very important to prolong the life of your projector; make sure to do it when needed; don’t overdo it; you may damage the filter.
Hope we have provided you with a helpful and easy way to clean the filter of the projector.
Related: How does a Projector work?
