• Projectors create an at-home theatre atmosphere, but not without issue.FrareDavis Photography/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
  
  Projectors need consistent maintenance and upkeep specific to this type of device. Unlike televisions, projectors do not work optimally right out of the box and need regular attention and care. Expensive part replacements, monthly internal cleanings, costly professional set-up and image issues are some things that many owners often describe as being bad about projectors.
  
  

Lamp Replacement

• According to DLP TV Review, projector lamps need replacing every five to six years.searchlight image by Aleksandr Ugorenkov from Fotolia.com
  
  Projectors contain lamps, which create the image on the screen using front-projection technology. All projectors require lamp replacement, as the bulbs typically burn out several times during the course of the television's life. According to DLP Review, bulbs can last anywhere from 1,000 hours for the cheaper models to 20,000 hours for the most expensive devices. A lamp burns out in less than a year with heavy use of the projector. Most manufacturer warranties only cover lamp replacements for up to three months. A new one costs anywhere from $70 to $200 depending on the make and model of the projector, according to DLP Review.
  
  

Air Filters

• Projectors with air filters need regular vacuuming to remove dust from the lamp area.vacuum cleaner image by vb_photo from Fotolia.com
  
  Many projectors contain an air filter, which maintains the life of the lamp by cooling it. The air filters require regular cleaning, at least on a monthly basis. Cleaning the air filter requires opening the projector and vacuuming any dust and debris from the filter. Excessively dusty rooms demand more frequent cleaning and filter replacements.
  
  

Calibration

• Access to the projector set-up menu requires professional assistance.girl with tv pilot image by krynio from Fotolia.com
  
  According to CNET, professional calibrations for projectors cost from $250 to $1,000 or more. Although projectors work without a professional calibration, optimal clarity and use of the units' features require it. CNET strongly advises against non-professionals attempting calibration. Professional calibrators operate special equipment, which analyzes and determines the appropriate settings.
  
  

Rainbow Effect

• The rainbow effect blurs projector images with red, blue and green shadows.color pattern image by Kit Wai Chan from Fotolia.com
  
  Most of the affordable projectors portray an unwanted rainbow effect during certain types of screen images. This effect includes red, green and blue flashes or shadows, which briefly appear on the image. The single-chip technology used to display color in the cheaper projectors creates this effect, especially during times when a light image moves on a dark background. The more expensive, three-chip-chip models never display the rainbow effect.
  
  

Viewing Angle

• The placement of the projector depends on the size of the screen and area.videoprojecteur image by mattmatt73 from Fotolia.com
  
  According to Crutchfield, projectors lack a wide viewing angle. A projector calls for seating directly in front of the screen. Anyone watching the screen at an angle experiences sub-par viewing. Additionally, the projector must be hung from the ceiling. The correct distance from the screen and angle of the projector vary depending on the size of the screen and room. These requirements create limited optimal seating space, especially if a large families or a room full of guests plans to watch the projector together.