FAQs
● What temperature is required for proper operation?

Lava lamps operate using heat, a principle unchanged since their invention in the 1960s.

To achieve optimal wax movement, we kindly recommend the following ambient room temperatures:

  • Floor lamp: ≥ 18°C / 65°F
  • Table lamp: ≥ 15°C / 59°F

If the ambient temperature is below the recommended level (e.g. without air conditioning or heating), the following may occur:

  • Extended warm-up time (up to 2 hours or more)
  • Slow or minimal wax movement

These are normal physical characteristics. Please assess whether your typical room temperature is suitable before purchasing.

As the lamp is large and fragile, returns may involve inconvenience and additional shipping costs. We appreciate your understanding.

● Voltage requirement

This model is designed for 100–110V power supply only.

If your local voltage differs, please use an appropriate voltage transformer.

Failure to do so may result in improper heating or electrical damage.

● Installation

Please follow the printed instruction manual included in the package.

● What if the wax floats at the top or stays suspended?

Due to temperature changes and transportation conditions, the wax may not settle at the bottom upon arrival.

Solutions:

  1. After installation, set the dimmer to maximum and allow the lamp to heat for several hours until the wax naturally settles.
  2. (Recommended) Use a hair dryer to gently heat one area of the wax. In most cases, it will sink and begin operating within minutes.

Once the wax settles after cooling, no further adjustment is required for regular use.

● Why is there a metal spring inside the bottle?

The metal spring is an essential heat-conducting component that helps stabilize wax circulation.

During normal operation, it will rest at the bottom and be covered by wax.

● Why does the wax appear solid or branch-like after switching on?

During the initial heating phase (approximately the first 20 minutes), the bottom wax may melt while the upper liquid remains cooler, causing temporary solid or branch-like shapes.

This is normal. No action is required—once the temperature stabilizes, the wax will begin flowing.

With repeated use, warm-up time will gradually shorten.

If you wish to preserve the static "branch-like" appearance, you may turn off the lamp at that stage; it will operate normally again when switched back on.

● Warm-up time

Under recommended room temperatures:

  • Table lamp: approx. 1 hour
  • Floor lamp: approx. 1–1.5 hours
● Recommended continuous usage time

We recommend operating the lamp for no more than 8 hours per session.

Extended heating may affect liquid clarity and reduce bulb lifespan.

● Why does the wax stay at the top or break into small pieces?

This indicates overheating.

Please rotate the dimmer back by 1/4–1/2 turn. Once the lamp cools slightly, normal movement will resume.

● Why is there a slight sound during startup?

During initial heating, the metal spring may produce faint popping sounds due to thermal expansion.

This is a normal physical response and not a defect.

The sound typically disappears shortly.

● Why does the actual color differ from photos or videos?

Wax and liquid colors may vary depending on ambient lighting.

Product images are taken under bright lighting; differences may appear at night or under warm/cool light sources.

● Why are there minor marks on the metal base of the bottle?

Each lamp undergoes several hours of aging tests before shipment.

The bottle sleeve is made of pure aluminum for heat conduction. As aluminum is relatively soft and tested across multiple bases, minor marks may occur.

These marks are not visible once assembled and do not affect performance.

● What if the bulb no longer lights up?

Halogen bulbs are consumable items with a limited lifespan.

Replacement bulbs are available for purchase through us.

● What if the liquid is frozen upon arrival (winter delivery)?

If freezing occurs during cold-weather transport, allow the bottle to thaw naturally.

Wipe off condensation before installation.

Do not power on while frozen, as rapid temperature changes may cause damage.

● Why does the liquid become cloudy or fade?
  • Cloudiness: Please contact our after-sales team at retro_thinc@outlook.com with product photos for assistance.
  • Fading: Prolonged UV exposure may cause natural fading over time. To extend lifespan, avoid direct sunlight.
● Is the lava lamp suitable as a children's toy?

No.

The lamp operates using heat and is not suitable for children.

Please keep out of reach of children under 14 years old.

● What should I do if the bottle breaks?

If the bottle breaks accidentally, please wear gloves when cleaning glass fragments.

The liquid is non-toxic. Absorb it with paper towels or cloth, and clean according to the surface material.

● Other inquiries

For any additional questions, please contact us at retro_thinc@outlook.com.

Our support team will be happy to assist you.