Floss in charcoal filter is brown

[MDDad]

Just started cycling, but there was some cloudiness (substrate particles) when I first turned on the filter.

It turned the floss BROWN. Since I'm gonna be a really exciting, should I switch that out now? What is the color really not matter as long as it's functional?

 

[Fresh2o]

The cloudiness that one sees when starting a filter happens on most filters. Nothing to worry about but it can be annoying.
Floss will turn brown/dark over time. If you see water bypassing the filter cartridge or more cloudiness or particles in the water than usual, then rinse it. If there is a separate biological media section, then you can use tap water. Otherwise, use tank water (removed after a water change).

 

[henningc]

Change it for peace of mind.