In general, basements have higher humidity than the outside air. Battery backup sump pumps are available in both water and battery-powered varieties. If you choose to install a sump pump, you should make sure it is properly installed. External Sump Pump Installation Montclair: A sump pump can help protect your basement. The discharge line should be buried at a depth that is at least a foot below the top of the check valve. Finally, you will need to install the discharge line. A battery-powered system can provide up to 18 hours of backup time. You may want to have a French drain installed by a professional. Sump pumps are similar to insurance in that they protect you from the risk of flooding. This is not as simple as it sounds. This is a line of clay or corrugated pipes that collects groundwater and diverts it away from your home.