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The common, marked as COM or C, is one of the terminals found in your light switch. It houses the live wire that supplies the input voltage. The other terminals, marked as L1 or L2, are the outputs to the light fixtures. Depending on if you have a one-way or two-way switch, you’ll either have just an L1 terminal or both an L1 and L2 terminal.

Both can and canless lights have distinct advantages, and the better option depends on your specific needs and preferences. Canless lights are often preferred for modern homes due to their slim, low-profile design, energy efficiency, and ability to fit in tight spaces with less ceiling depth required. Can lights, or traditional recessed lights, provide a classic look and may be better for high ceilings or areas that need stronger, more focused light. While they can be durable, they typically require more ceiling space and installation work. Ultimately, you should choose canless lights for a modern look and energy savings, or opt for can lights for a traditional aesthetic and robust lighting in larger spaces.

The most common reason a GFCI outlet would trip even when nothing is plugged in is if there’s a problem at the circuit breaker end. This could be an overloaded circuit, with too many appliances plugged into it, or another type of fault. If a GFCI outlet keeps tripping, it can also be because it is faulty and needs replacing.

Several signs can indicate a light switch is bad. If the switch feels loose, slides down after you flip it, or requires multiple flicks to turn the light on, it may be failing. Other common indicators include flickering lights or a general failure to turn the light on or off. Pay attention to any unusual sounds, such as crackling, buzzing, or popping when you operate the switch. More serious signs, which can present a fire or shock hazard, include the switch feeling excessively warm or hot, sparking, smoking, or emitting a burning smell. If you notice any of these dangerous signs, stop using the switch immediately and call an electrician.