I recently had my first bulb blow at just 900 hours (PLV-Z1).
I've been good about cleaning the removable filter on the side, but while changing the bulb today I noticed two non-removable filters on the UNDERSIDE of the projector which I had completely neglected (and not surprisingly, were almost completely blocked).
If you look on the underside of your Z1 you will find two gridded areas, behind which is a fine mesh. A light vacuuming was all that was needed to remove the dust from the underside filters. I have no proof that their blockage shortened my bulb life, of course, but it seems like a logical conclusion.
I haven't had much experience with other projectors, but PJ owners may want to see if there are ADDITIONAL air intake spots that might also benefit from regular cleaning and thus extend bulb life.
-Colin.
I've been good about cleaning the removable filter on the side, but while changing the bulb today I noticed two non-removable filters on the UNDERSIDE of the projector which I had completely neglected (and not surprisingly, were almost completely blocked).
If you look on the underside of your Z1 you will find two gridded areas, behind which is a fine mesh. A light vacuuming was all that was needed to remove the dust from the underside filters. I have no proof that their blockage shortened my bulb life, of course, but it seems like a logical conclusion.
I haven't had much experience with other projectors, but PJ owners may want to see if there are ADDITIONAL air intake spots that might also benefit from regular cleaning and thus extend bulb life.
-Colin.