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Typically, when a 3-way switch only works when one switch is on, this is one of the most telltale indicators that the switch has gone bad (although this could also be the result of faulty or loose wiring). To diagnose the issue, toggle each switch until the light comes on. Once it’s on, toggle each switch separately again; the switch that doesn’t turn the light off is the bad switch. 

The wrong-sized wire can lead to several safety hazards, including structural fires, surges, power outages from tripped breakers, and electrocution. It’s important to follow the American Wire Gauge system and the National Electrical Code guidelines to safely wire a home. Electrical wiring is not safe for homeowners to handle and is best left to a licensed electrician.

It can be safe to buy or live in a house with knob and tube (K&T) wiring, but only if the system is in good condition, functional, and has been thoroughly inspected and approved by a licensed electrician. Never purchase a home with K&T wiring without getting a professional electrical inspection first.

Key considerations include:

• Safety and Condition: An inspector will verify that the wiring is safe and has not deteriorated. Over time, the insulation can wear away, leaving exposed wires that pose a significant fire or shock hazard.

• System Capacity: The electrical service should be at least 60 amps. However, even at this capacity, K&T systems often struggle to handle the demands of modern appliances and electronics.

• Lack of Grounding: Knob and tube wiring is an ungrounded system, which is a safety concern for many modern devices.

• Ongoing Maintenance: If you live in a home with K&T wiring, it's recommended to have it inspected by an electrician every one to two years to ensure it remains in safe working order.

Ultimately, any inspection or modification of a knob and tube system should always be performed by a certified professional.

Watts and volts represent distinct aspects of a light bulb’s functionality. Volts measure the electrical force that drives the current through the bulb, determining its compatibility with the power source. Watts, on the other hand, quantify the bulb’s power consumption and indicate its brightness level. Higher watts generally mean a brighter bulb.