I erroneously thought that my Epson projector bulb life was 1500-2000 hours and purchased a new bulb from Projector Lamps because my current bulb was at 2100 hours. In fact, my Epson 5040UB bulb should last 4000 hours at the medium power setting I have the projector on. I tried the new bulb and compared it with the old bulb and if anything it seemed a little dimmer. I called ProjectorLamps.com and the representative informed me that in fact my projector bulb should last ~4000 hours and they would be happy to take the bulb back that I purchased. I was sent an RMA form and the return was simple. When I do need a bulb I will be going back to ProjectorLamps.com