MOVA Globes are more than just décor—they draw you in with their quiet, steady rotation, powered by nothing more than ambient light. It’s a simple pleasure, watching them spin effortlessly, so it can be frustrating when they stop moving. Thankfully, the reasons are often small and easy to fix.

In this guide, we’ll go over common causes and solutions to help you get your MOVA Globe turning again with minimal effort.

Understanding How MOVA Globes Work

Before diving into troubleshooting, it’s helpful to understand the basic principles behind how MOVA Globes function. MOVA Globes are unique because they don’t rely on batteries or electrical power. Instead, they are designed to rotate using the combination of ambient light and the Earth’s magnetic field.

The globe itself is suspended within a liquid-filled outer shell, which creates the mesmerizing floating effect. Hidden solar cells within the globe capture light energy and convert it into the motion that causes the globe to spin gently. When there’s enough light and an optimal magnetic field, the globe rotates effortlessly.

However, like any sophisticated piece of technology, MOVA Globes require certain conditions to function properly. If these conditions are not met, the globe may stop rotating.

Common Causes for a Non-Rotating MOVA Globe

1. Insufficient Light Exposure

One of the most common reasons a MOVA Globe may stop rotating is a lack of sufficient light. MOVA Globes rely on light energy from natural or artificial sources to power their movement. If the globe is placed in a dimly lit room or away from light sources, it may not receive enough energy to rotate.

Solution: Ensure that your MOVA Globe is placed in an area with adequate lighting. Direct sunlight works best, but bright indoor lighting can also be effective. If you’re using artificial light, make sure it’s close enough to the globe to power the solar cells. Test the lighting conditions by moving the globe to a brighter spot and observing whether the rotation resumes.

2. Misalignment with the Magnetic Field

MOVA Globes rotate in harmony with the Earth's magnetic field. If your globe is not aligned correctly, it may struggle to rotate or stop altogether.

Solution: Try gently repositioning your globe to see if that helps. Sometimes, a simple adjustment to the direction the globe is facing can resolve the issue. You can also test the globe in different areas of your home or office to see if the magnetic field in that spot is affecting the globe's ability to spin.

Expert Tip: The Earth's magnetic field can vary depending on your location and the materials in your surroundings. Avoid placing your MOVA Globe near large metal objects or electronic devices that may interfere with the magnetic field.

3. Dirty or Scratched Surface

The MOVA Globe operates by rotating inside its liquid-filled outer shell. If the outer shell becomes dirty, scratched, or smudged, friction can occur, impeding the smooth rotation of the globe.

Solution: Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining your MOVA Globe’s functionality. Use a soft cloth to gently wipe down the surface of the globe and the outer shell. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, as these can scratch the surface and cause more harm than good. A microfiber cloth is ideal for keeping your globe in pristine condition.

Pro Tip: If you notice any scratches, consider applying a very light coat of plastic polish to reduce friction and restore the smooth surface. Always test the polish on a small area first to ensure it doesn't damage the globe.

4. Fluid Imbalance

MOVA Globes contain a specialized liquid that allows the globe to float and rotate effortlessly. In rare cases, a fluid imbalance can occur, which may affect the rotation.

Solution: If you suspect a fluid imbalance, it’s best to contact MOVA customer support for further assistance. While it’s uncommon, this issue may require professional attention to resolve. The good news is that MOVA Globes are designed with long-lasting fluid systems, and this issue is rare.

Note: Avoid tampering with the liquid-filled outer shell, as doing so can damage the globe permanently.

5. Globe Size and Rotation Speed

The size of your MOVA Globe can also affect its rotation speed. Larger globes may rotate more slowly than smaller ones due to their weight and the amount of energy required to move them.

Solution: If you own a larger globe, be patient. It may take more time for the globe to gather enough light energy to begin rotating. Ensure that it’s in a well-lit area and give it time to reach its full rotational speed.

Fun Fact: MOVA offers globes in various sizes, including 4.5 inches, 6 inches, and 8.5 inches. Each size has its own unique rotation speed, but all sizes rely on the same principles of light and magnetism to function.

Additional Troubleshooting Tips

If the basic troubleshooting steps don’t work, try these tips:

• Move the globe to a brighter or different location to test different lighting and magnetic conditions.
• Inspect the globe for physical damage, such as cracks or dents, that could affect its functionality.

Conclusion

Most issues with MOVA Globes are easy to fix with some simple adjustments. By ensuring proper lighting, correct alignment with the magnetic field, and regular cleaning, your MOVA Globe will continue spinning for years to come. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us through the form.