I suspect this is what's going on. Woodpeckers drum in spring, for the dual purposes of attracting a mate and declaring a territory. Each species has its own signature beat, the woodpecker equivalent of a songbird's call. For the next month or so, flickers and other woodpeckers across the US are drumming away. After this time, the racket should stop.
Preferences do vary from one individual to the next.
There are many nonlethal options. One of the best is a scare balloon. This is a large, heavy-duty balloon, upon which is painted a face sure to strike terror into the heart of a flicker. Inflated with helium, the balloon can be placed near the bird's favorite spot on the house. Another possibility is mirrored tape, printed with holographic eyes resembling those of an owl.