Sir,
Regarding the water problem in the basement: In our own basement, we have the traditional electric (grid powered) sump pumps. However, the previous owner had installed a water-powered back-up sump pump. As long as there is cold water pressure, this pump
For most folks, a power outage in a severe thunderstorm is the most common cause of basement flooding. At least for a short period of time, such a water-powered back-up should work long enough for you to move and/or protect your gear. Some will rightly say that water pressure eventually will fade in an extended outage, since public generators will fail and stop pumping to the towers. This is true, but in power outages, people tend to reduce their water consumption for cooking, watering lawns, and bathing. The pressure may last longer than you think.
Best, – The Other Brian B.