Installing a sump pump is not a trivial task but it is a project that you can take on.

A key part will be selecting the right pump. Make sure you have one with a high quality switch and float. Another consideration is is the housing. They come in plastic, metal , and cast iron. Cast iron is the best for dissipating heat. Pumps are sold by horsepower and commonly are ¼, 1/3, and ½. Also make sure to check the gallons per hour. Some pumps with the same horse power may move twice as much water. You will find a wide selection of sump pumps with reviews below. 

Some key steps in installing a sump pump include digging a sump pump pit. This is where you are going to put your container. Don’t try to use a 5 gallon bucket, it will cause you problems don the road. Instead purchase a proper container. For most pumps this should be a least 18 wide and 22 inches deep. Most pump installations will involve breaking up a concrete floor so you will need to rent a jackhammer. When choosing where to install the pump you will want to pick the lowest point in your basement.

You will need to purchase some concrete to seal the the edge of the pump pit to the floor. No need for a cement truck. A bag of concrete from the local hardware store should do and here you can use your 5 gallon bucket to mix it up.

Many pumps have a check valve to make sure that there is no back flow of the water. If your pump doesn’t have one then you will need to install it but I would just add this to my criteria list for the pump to begin with.

Next you will need to place the pump and and connect the hoses. Some are submersible, others are upright and will be next to the pit. Make sure you have enough electricity, if not you may need to add a dedicated circuit. Use your judgment to determine if that is something you can do yourself.

You will find a wide selection of sump pumps with reviews below. Good luck!