...again. 

This is the third time since we got this LG TV in January of 2005.  Last time it was over the long post-Christmas pre-New Year's year-end holiday so the wait was over a week.  

This time it suffered a sudden death around 7:00 pm on Friday night.  Weekend. I have a five year extended warranty that covers replacement but it's the waiting that's the thing.  "I'll have that dispatched and someone will get back to you on Monday." So maybe someone will show up to replace the bulb before "24" Monday night.  Or not. I'm betting on 'not.'

Was all set to watch "Burn After Reading" last night but that was squelched.  Sigh. 

So, has anyone else gone through these TV bulb problems with LCD sets?  Is there a better, more reliable TV?

     
“Half a truth is often a great lie.”

Ben Franklin

Jordan .

My PC flatscreen is an LG product ( Flatron). I had never heard of them when I bought an HP compute. They were out of the regular screens and LG was a substitute- supposedly worth more than the regular one.

That sucks losing your picture Susan. So, you got an extended warranty? That has worked out for you, but like you say the interruption of service is exasperating and they do not recompense for the hassle. That might make a desirable warranty rider -like $50/day for lost use inconvenience.

Yes I got a good report on a Samsung flatscreen TV from a bud. And my Samsung phone is just fine.

I have a Sharp Flat TV and it has worked out well. Maybe research Consumer Reports, others for info ?

Yes Jordan , I read that the Plasma v LCD competition has gone to the LCDs. Plasmas peaked from 2004 to 2006. Manufacturers are even dropping plasma products- I believe Pioneer ? has discontinued them for one.

Well here's what I actually have.  An LG 47-44SZ61D DLP Projection TV.  It is a rear projection TV.  Hmmm, I guess I was wrong.  My mother has an LCD LG that is only 2 years old.  Our image on the same size screen is much better than hers though.  That is when ours is WORKING!  On high definition tv hers looks flat and reminds me of the look I get when photo editing when using the "reduce noise" control.  It's weird and faces look oily.

Gordon the problem with my set was not that it was going dim -- it just went to black.  Sudden Death.

Sure hope I have the TV for 24 tomorrow night.

Susan

     
“Half a truth is often a great lie.”

Ben Franklin

Do you by chance have an indicator light on your TV telling you that the bulb is going out soon? According to some websites I've seen, they are saying that there's an indicator light on the LG TVs.

you might be interested in this website

Jordan .

"Harry, I'm going to let you in on a little secret. Every day, once a day, give yourself a present. Don't plan it, don't wait for it, just let it happen. Could be a new shirt at the men's store, a catnap in your office chair, or two cups of good, hot, black coffee. Like this."  -Dale Cooper

     
“Half a truth is often a great lie.”

Ben Franklin

on that link above, there's instructions on how to reset that indicator light. Have the technician try that. You could do it yourself but this is in the service menu and one mistake in there could cause you all sorts of pain and suffering.

sorry you missed 24

Jordan .

Just called to check on the progress of finding an LG replacement bulb in the city of Los Angeles.  This time the robot in Indiana at the "service" call center told me that she sees the 'document' created by the mythical dispatch (whom I cannot speak to directly because that isn't allowed) and they're working to find me that bulb.  Usually it takes 7 to 10 days.  Then they ship it to me.  Then someone comes to install it. However long that could take.  it's their new improved service unlike the last time I had this problem. Conceivably I could have a functional TV by... mid-April!

I told her there are hundreds of TV repair shops near me and plenty of them are authorized LG service centers.  Why can't I call and see which one has the bulb in stock (generally that takes one or two calls) and set up and appt myself.  Like TODAY!  

"I was told to tell you that the bulb should arrive within 7 to 10 working days."

Then the capper:  "We're here 24 hours a day 7 days a week to take your calls."  Great.  If I ever feel like having a useless conversation at any time of the day, I know who I'm gonna call.  And my personal favorite part of the script is where they ask "Is there anything ELSE I can do to assist you today?" 

Whadda way to start the morning but not unexpected.  This is not worth $399.00 for five years of "service" and bulb replacement.  Wanna bet I don't make it to the end of the day without calling my own LG repairman???

Susan (so caught up in her own personal trials and tribulations like watching 24 on a crappy old TV last night)

PS  I gave in and called Raffi, my main LG man.  He said he's sending someone over today with my new bulb.  Has plenty of them in stock. "Today?!" I declared with glee.    "Definitely, honey."  he replied.       Swoon.  I'm in love.

     
“Half a truth is often a great lie.”

Ben Franklin

Jordan .

Raffi ripped me off, in my opinion.  $185 to install the bulb and $269 for the bulb.  Later I saw my same TV for sale online for $499! 

Oh well.  At least I'm watching TV.  Low contrast; low brightness.  I think Raffi sold me a lemon bulb the last time too which is why it only lasted 15 months.  At least the warranty covered that one after a looooooong fight.  This one they won't cover but I'm having them send me the one I'm owed and will keep it handy. 

Susan

     
“Half a truth is often a great lie.”

Ben Franklin

Was the contrast and brightness near maximum?

Jordan .