Correct Kind Of Ammonia For Fish-Less Cycle

[rk4n3]

Hi all,
 
I'm going to be starting a fish-less cycle on my new 29-gal tank, and I went to look for ammonia with uncertain results.
 
I found one (at Walgreens) that had ingredients as ammonium hydroxide (which I understand is "ammonia") and "surfactant".  I think surfactant is some kind of lubricant/soap, but I'm not sure.  When I shook the bottle, it foamed up - and the liquid looked a bit thick.  So, I skipped that one.
 
The closest I've found so far is at WalMart, and the ingredients say ammonia and "surfactant", but when I shake this bottle, there's no foam or extra "stuff" apparent, and the liquid is thin as water, as I would expect.
 
Will I be OK with the WalMart version, or do I have to worry about the "surfactant" ?
 
If the surfactant is a problem, where can I get just plain/pure ammonia ?
 
Sincere thanks,
rk4n3

 

[attibones]

Depending on where you live, you may not be able to get it. Where I live, it is illegal to sell pure ammonia, as it is used for the making of illegal drugs. I found the same product at wal mart and started to use it, but I'm worried it is stalling my cycles.

 

[rk4n3]

Wow ... thanks for confirmation of the question.  I hope that someone can give us a definitive answer, I'd hate to use the product and cause some kind of irreparable or troublesome condition in my new tank.

 

[TwoTankAmin]

Since you are in the states, you have an alternative which is an ammonium chloride solution which you can find here https/store.drtimsaquatics.com/Ammonium-Chloride-Solution-for-Fishless-Cycling_p_190.html
 
You do not have to buy the bacteria.
 
For curious folks with a scientific DIY bent, ammonium chloride is a cheap easy to purchase powder. With a good scale, some beaker type stuff and ro/di water one can make their own solution. Its so much easier to buy Dr Tim's though.

 

[rk4n3]

Thanks TwoTankAmin - very helpful !
 
I actually did find some pure ammonia just a few minutes ago - Ace Hardware sells it.
 
Thanks for the info

 

[eaglesaquarium]

Thanks TwoTankAmin - very helpful !
 
I actually did find some pure ammonia just a few minutes ago - Ace Hardware sells it.
 
Thanks for the info

 
 
I was about to mention that.  Its where I got mine.