A burning smell coming from your dryer is often a warning sign that lint or debris has accumulated inside the vent or exhaust duct. As the dryer heats up, trapped lint can overheat and begin to smolder, producing a distinct burning odor that should never be ignored. This buildup not only restricts airflow, making the dryer less efficient, but also poses a serious fire risk if left unaddressed. Turning off the dryer immediately and scheduling a professional vent cleaning can help prevent potential damage and ensure the system operates safely and efficiently.