Yeah… that’s one of those “it works, but it really shouldn’t be a go-to” tricks.
What’s happening is that sewer gas—mainly methane—can build up in pipes. Lighting it briefly can burn off that gas and sometimes relieve minor pressure or odor issues. So in that very narrow sense, it can appear to “fix” the problem.
But here’s the issue: it’s genuinely risky. You’re dealing with a flammable gas in an enclosed plumbing system. In the wrong conditions, that can cause a flashback, damage your pipes, or even lead to an explosion. It’s not something most professional plumbers would recommend as a standard or safe practice.
If you’re dealing with odors or suspected gas buildup, safer fixes include:
- Running water to refill traps (which block sewer gas)
- Checking for dry or cracked traps
- Using proper venting or calling a licensed plumber for inspection
So while it might feel like a clever hack, it’s one of those cases where the risk outweighs the convenience. Better to stick with safer, boring solutions here.
