In-Depth Exo Terra Monsoon RS400 Misting System Review – All You Need to Know

A terrarium is an enclosed glass or plastic container that creates a miniature ecosystem for plants, insects, amphibians, reptiles, and small animals. Terrariums allow you to recreate small slices of the natural world in an artistic and educational way.

They have surged in popularity as both home decor and as pets for reptiles, amphibians, and arthropods.

However, a thriving terrarium requires careful balance of temperature, lighting, and humidity. Humidity in particular can be challenging to maintain at an ideal level.

Low humidity can quickly lead to dehydration, shedding issues, and even death for sensitive reptiles, amphibians, and plants.

This is where a quality misting system comes in. Misting systems are designed to automatically spray a fine mist inside your terrarium at programmed intervals.

This boosts humidity, provides drinking water, and simulates natural rain showers.

The Exo Terra Monsoon RS400 is one of the most popular and highest-rated misting systems on the market.

In this in-depth review, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this effective and easy-to-use misting system for terrariums and vivariums.

Overview of Terrarium Misting Systems

Before diving into the specifics of the Exo Terra Monsoon RS400 misting system review, let’s look at why misting systems are so vital for terrariums and how they work.

Why Do Terrariums Need Misting Systems?

Terrariums are a closed environment. Even large tanks lose moisture quickly through ventilation and evaporation. This can lead to dangerously low humidity levels.

Some key reasons terrariums need supplemental misting include:

• Preventing dehydration – For species like chameleons, day geckos, and most amphibians that don’t drink standing water, misting provides essential hydration via water droplets on leaves and cage decor.
• Shedding assistance – Proper hydration and humidity ensures reptiles and amphibians can shed their skin easily and completely.
• Respiratory health – Low humidity can quickly lead to respiratory infections in many exotic pets. Frequent misting keeps their lung linings hydrated.
• Thermoregulation – Misting helps regulate temperature swings in small enclosures. The evaporating mist has a cooling effect.
• Thriving plants – Orchids, bromeliads, mosses and other tropical plants require consistent humidity to flourish in a terrarium.

Simply misting by hand when you remember is not an effective solution. Terrariums need programmed misting systems that maintain ideal humidity around the clock.

How Do Misting Systems Work?

Terrarium misting systems have a simple design and operation:

• A reservoir tank holds clean water that is sprayed into the terrarium. This may be bottled distilled water or tap water treated with a dechlorinator.
• One or more misting nozzles attach at the top of the tank. Flexible tubing runs from the nozzles into the terrarium.
• A small electric pump pressurizes the water and forces it through the tubing and nozzles as a fine mist.
• An electronic controller turns the pump on and off at programmed intervals to achieve the desired misting schedule.
• Some systems include a hygrometer that reads the actual humidity level and adjusts misting frequency automatically to maintain ideal conditions.

Why Choose the Exo Terra Monsoon RS400?

Now that you understand the basics of terrarium misting systems, let’s look at what makes the Exo Terra Monsoon RS400 one of the most popular choices on the market:

• Fully programmable – Set misting duration from just 2 seconds up to 2 hours. Program misting intervals from every few hours to multiple times per day.
• Large capacity – 9.5 liter (2.5 gallon) reservoir runs for days between refills. Great for vacations.
• Superfine mist – Nozzles produce an ultra-fine mist that evaporates quickly, raising humidity.
• Expandable – Comes with 2 nozzles, expandable to 6 nozzles for multiple terrariums.
• Easy installation – Quick setup with included suction cups, tubing, and nozzles.
• Concealed design – Extra long tubing allows hiding the tank in a cabinet or shelf.
• Reliable operation – Consistent misting day after day unlike hand spraying.
• Quiet – Whisper-quiet pump won’t disturb reptiles, amphibians or you.
• Energy efficient – Uses less electricity than heating and lighting.
• Trusted brand – Exo Terra is a leader in terrarium products since 1993.

For reptile and amphibian keepers that want automated, consistent misting on a budget, the Exo Terra Monsoon RS400 is an excellent choice. The programmable schedule, quiet operation, easy setup, and affordable price make this a great value.

Key Features and Benefits of the Exo Terra Monsoon RS400

Let’s take a more in-depth look at the features and capabilities of this best-selling misting system:

Fully Programmable Operation

The Exo Terra Monsoon RS400 allows you to easily program the misting duration and interval to meet the needs of your terrarium inhabitants and plants.

• Duration – Set misting bursts from just 2 seconds all the way up to 2 full hours. Use short bursts for a light mist effect or longer durations to soak the terrarium.
• Interval – Program the time between misting bursts from every few hours for a rainforest effect up to 1-2 times per day for drier species.
• Consistency – Once programmed, the system will mist automatically on the set schedule every day without you having to do anything.

You can adjust the schedule seasonally as humidity needs change. The flexibility and consistency of programmable misting are a huge benefit over manual spraying.

Large Capacity Reservoir

The Exo Terra Monsoon RS400 features an oversized 9.5 liter (2.5 gallon) tank. This substantial reservoir allows the system to run continuously for days without needing a refill.

The large capacity serves a few key purposes:

• Great for weekends or vacations. You can leave for several days without worrying about the system running dry.
• Minimizes the chore of frequent refills. Only needs topping off 1-2 times per week for most setups.
• Provides ample water volume for larger tanks, multiple terrariums, or thirsty plants.

Not having to refill the tank constantly is a major convenience benefit of the RS400 model over smaller capacity systems.

Superfine Misting Nozzles

Misting nozzles play a big role in effectively raising humidity. The Exo Terra Monsoon RS400 comes standard with two specially designed nozzles that produce an ultra-fine mist.

Some key benefits of the fine misting include:

• Evaporates quickly to increase humidity rapidly after a burst.
• Less likely to accumulate as troublesome droplets on plants and cage surfaces.
• Easier for reptiles, amphibians, and insects to drink suspended micro-droplets.
• Provides better coverage than coarser misting nozzles.

The quality nozzles result in optimal humidity boosting and an aesthetically pleasing mist effect in your terrarium.

Expandable to Multiple Terrariums

While the Exo Terra Monsoon RS400 comes pre-installed with two nozzles, it can be expanded to support up to six nozzles total.

This allows the system to mist multiple adjacent terrariums from a single reservoir. To add more nozzles:

• Purchase additional Exo Terra Monsoon nozzles. They readily screw into the flexible tubing.
• Limit to 1-2 nozzles per small/medium terrarium for good coverage.
• Keep total nozzles under 6 to maintain adequate misting pressure.
• Adjust the misting duration to account for more nozzles.

Expanding the system is an affordable way to mist multiple tanks while only needing one reservoir.

Easy and Invisible Installation

Exo Terra designed the Monsoon RS400 for quick, simple setup and for hiding away out of sight:

• Suction cups, clamps, and adhesive strips allow secure attachment of the nozzles inside the tank.
• 16 feet of flexible tubing permits positioning the nozzles where you want and concealing the main reservoir.
• Can mount the reservoir under a tank stand, on a shelf, or in an adjacent closet or room.

With a bit of creative tubing routing, you can install an effective misting system with no visible parts inside or outside your terrarium.

Quiet and Energy Efficient Operation

Two things that can be annoying about misting systems are noise and wasted electricity. Exo Terra overcame these potential downsides with the Monsoon RS400:

• Ultra-quiet pump – The low noise DC pump is practically inaudible. It won’t disturb reptiles, amphibians or people.
• Low energy use – Uses less electricity than standard light bulbs. Low operating cost.
• Long tubing – Lets you hide reservoir in a cabinet so zero noise in the room.

The quiet, energy efficient system can run all day without you even noticing it is on. This is key for a healthy terrarium environment.

Quality and Support You Can Trust

With over 25 years in the terrarium products business, Exo Terra has earned a reputation for quality, innovation, and customer support.

The Monsoon RS400 comes with a 1 year warranty. Exo Terra provides replacement parts and additional accessories to expand capabilities over time.

Getting questions answered or issues resolved is easy with their knowledgeable support team.

Key Features	Benefits
1. Programmable Settings	– Provides a customizable misting schedule
	– Mimics natural rainforest environments
	– Ensures consistent humidity levels
2. Remote Control	– Conveniently operate the system remotely
	– Adjust settings without disturbing pets
3. Adjustable Spray Nozzles	– Allows precise mist direction and coverage
	– Ideal for different terrarium setups
4. Large Water Reservoir	– Reduces the need for frequent refills
	– Provides continuous misting for days
5. Compact and Durable	– Fits well in most terrarium setups
	– Built to withstand reptile environments
6. Low Noise Operation	– Quiet misting won’t stress reptiles
	– Suitable for use in living spaces
7. Essential for Reptiles	– Promotes hydration for reptiles and plants
	– Supports overall health and well-being

Investing in a trusted brand of misting system brings peace of mind. You know your terrarium pets will stay healthy for years to come.

Setting Up the Exo Terra Monsoon RS400 Misting System

One of the benefits of the Monsoon RS400 is the quick and easy setup process. Here is an overview of getting your new misting system unpacked, assembled, installed, and running:

Unpacking and Parts Inventory

The misting system comes packed with everything you need for standard setup:

• Main reservoir
• Water pump and filter assembly
• Electronic misting controller
• Two misting nozzles with caps
• Two 16’ lengths of 1/4” flexible tubing
• Suction cups, clamps, and adhesive strips for mounting
• Comprehensive user manual

Take a few minutes to unpack all parts, verify quantities, and read the manual to get familiar with how they fit together. This prevents delayed setup if any pieces are missing or unclear.

Assembling the System

With all parts unpacked, assembling the system takes just a few minutes:

1. Screw the pump/filter unit into the underside of the reservoir using the provided thumb screws. Ensure the o-ring seal is in place.
2. Press the tubing into the nozzle connectors at the pump outlet. Tubing should insert about 1/2” and click into place.
3. Choose your mounting location for the reservoir. This can be inside a cabinet, on a shelf, or under the tank.
4. Position the misting nozzles where you want inside the terrarium using the suction cups and clamps.

That’s the basics of physical setup. Now you need to program the controller and power up the system.

Programming the Controller

The digital controller lets you easily set the misting duration and interval:

1. Plug the pump and controller power adapters into outlets (be sure to use correct voltage).
2. The controller display will show mist duration in seconds. Use the arrow keys to set your desired misting time.
3. Press the MODE button to switch the display to interval time. Use arrows to set the time between mist cycles.
4. Press MODE again to lock in settings. Your custom schedule is now programmed and ready to start misting automatically.

Refer to the manual if you need help with controller programming. Settings can easily be changed in the future as needs change.

Powering Up the System

With assembly and programming complete, turning on the system is easy:

1. Fill the reservoir with filtered, dechlorinated, or distilled water.
2. Turn on power to the pump and controller. The pump should pressurize the line and the controller will begin the automatic misting schedule.
3. Inspect to make sure mist comes through both nozzles evenly. Adjust as needed for proper coverage.

Once powered on, the Monsoon RS400 will consistently stick to the misting schedule you programmed without any further input needed.

Using and Maintaining the Exo Terra Monsoon RS400

Caring for your misting system takes very little time and effort. Just a bit routine maintenance is required to keep the Monsoon RS400 running optimally for years.

Setting the Best Misting Schedule

It may take a little trial and error dialing in the ideal misting duration and frequency for your particular terrarium setup.

Factors that determine proper misting include:

• Tank size – Larger volumes need longer misting to reach target humidity.
• Ventilation – Well-ventilated enclosures lose moisture quickly.
• Number of nozzles – More nozzles allow shorter burst at higher frequency.
• Plant type – Orchids and rainforest plants need frequent heavy misting.
• Pet species – Desert reptiles may only need occasional light misting.

Monitor humidity closely as you test different schedules. Adjust in small increments until you find the optimum times for your system.

Refilling the Reservoir

Depending on your programmed schedule, expect to refill the reservoir every 2-4 days for most setups.

• Check daily to see if tank needs topping off. Don’t let water get too low.
• Switch off the pump power before removing reservoir to refill.
• Use filtered or distilled water to prevent mineral buildup.
• Consider using an automatic top-off system for truly hands-free operation.

Get in the habit of frequent reservoir checks. Letting it run dry risks harming the pump.

Expanding Coverage with Extra Nozzles

As previously mentioned, you can expand the Exo Terra Monsoon RS400 up to 6 nozzles total. This allows covering multiple terrariums from one reservoir.

When adding supplemental nozzles:

• Shut off and depressurize the system before attaching new nozzles.
• Follow directions for cutting tubing and installing push-in connectors.
• Position new nozzles using provided mounting hardware.
• Shorten duration and increase frequency to maintain pressure.

Adding a nozzle or two to cover additional tanks is quick and easy.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Like any humid terrarium system, the Monsoon RS400 needs occasional cleaning to prevent mineral buildup and keep everything hygienic.

• Nozzles – Remove and soak nozzles in white vinegar to dissolve any clogs or deposits. Rinse thoroughly before reinstalling. Replace if worn out.
• Pump filter – Rinse filter monthly and replace as needed to maintain good water flow and pressure.
• Reservoir – Periodically dump out all water and clean interior with mild soap and a bottle brush to prevent growth of microorganisms.
• Tubing – Run vinegar solution through tubing to keep it clean and free of buildup. Replace if cracking or severely bent.

Staying on top of cleaning duties will maximize enjoyment of your terrarium for many years to come.

Troubleshooting Issues

While Exo Terra misting systems are highly reliable, you may encounter an occasional issue. Here is how to troubleshoot some common problems:

No mist or weak mist

• Ensure reservoir is filled with water and the pump is running
• Check for kinks, blocks, or splits in the tubing
• Clean or replace pump filter and misting nozzles
• Replace pump if over 5 years old

Uneven misting

• Ensure nozzles are pointed properly to evenly cover tank
• Clean nozzles to remove any mineral deposits
• Adjust tubing to equalize pressure to both nozzles

Water collecting in terrarium

• Shorten mist duration to prevent pooling
• Redirect nozzles away from hard surfaces
• Increase ventilation in tank

Loud pump noise

• Ensure pump is fully submerged in water
• Replace pump if over 5 years old
• Consider moving reservoir farther from terrarium

Short misting cycles

• Check for leaks allowing water to drain from reservoir
• Verify electronic controller settings
• Replace electronic controller if faulty

Getting help from Exo Terra customer support is suggested if you cannot resolve issues on your own.

Comparison to Other Popular Exo Terra Models

Exo Terra offers several different misting system models. Let’s look at how the Monsoon RS400 compares to a couple other popular options – the Monsoon Solo and Monsoon Multi.

Exo Terra Monsoon Solo

The Monsoon Solo is Exo Terra’s most compact and affordable mister. Key differences versus the RS400 include:

• Smaller 1.5 liter reservoir. More frequent refilling needed.
• Pre-set mist intervals. No programmable schedule.
• One nozzle only. Not expandable for multiple tanks.
• No automatic shutoff. Can run reservoir dry.

The Solo is best for very small, simple terrariums with modest misting needs. It lacks the programming flexibility and robust construction of the RS400.

Exo Terra Monsoon Multi

On the high end, the Monsoon Multi is made for larger scale setups. It offers:

• Two independently programmable misting zones.
• Hygrometer monitors and regulates humidity automatically

• Much larger 8 gallon reservoir.
• Higher 200 psi pump pressure for more nozzles.
• Advanced timer, modes, and smartphone control options.

The Multi is overkill for misting most home terrariums. The RS400 matches its key features at a more affordable price point.

For all but the most demanding industrial, zoo, or research installations, the Monsoon RS400 hits the sweet spot of power, features, and value.

Conclusion

After reading this review, you should have a detailed understanding of the Exo Terra Monsoon RS400 and why it is one of the top terrarium misting systems money can buy.

To recap, key benefits that make the Monsoon RS400 a leading choice include:

• Programmable misting duration and interval for custom schedules
• Large capacity 2.5 gallon reservoir runs for days between refills
• Superfine mist nozzles rapidly boost humidity
• Quiet, energy efficient operation
• Expandable coverage for multiple tanks
• Easy setup and concealed installation
• Trusted quality and support from Exo Terra

The Monsoon RS400 simply makes maintaining ideal terrarium humidity easy and hassle-free. Frequent, automated misting keeps delicate reptiles, exotic plants, and miniature ecosystems healthy and thriving for years on end.

If you need reliable, effective humidity control for your home or classroom terrarium, the Exo Terra Monsoon RS400 is a top-rated system that will meet your needs and exceed your expectations.