In addition, a pump helps prevent mold growth, which can damage walls and warp wood. But, if your sump pump isn't in top-notch shape, there's a good chance that you could be putting your money into a bucket of water. Some are quieter than others. You'll need a wrench to help you do this. This is the part you'll attach to the PVC pipe. You may want to have a French drain installed by a professional. The first step in getting the right sump pump is to decide on the right power level.