[codefox1]

For those of us who have 220 (now 240) volt service, especially older homes, each 110 or 120 volt "leg" can behave quite differently, especially if, like in my area, the local transmission likes are still aluminum, and the joint to the house downlead which is almost always copper becomes leaky after decades. Thus by putting a little more load on that "leg" the connection heals a bit, light bulbs don't care, and you're good to go with the radio. Most utilities will come, measure, inspect, and fix outside connections upon request without charge. Once inside the house, it's not their problem. Well, been there, done that. Who knew?