The Ferguson Wind Pump should be placed where there is a good clear wind and water source.

The wind pump draws water from a water source and pumps it into a reservoir, water trough, or the like.  Because the pump is above the water source and not immersed in it, the pump must not be placed too far above the water source level.  This is simple physics and applies to all pumping systems of this type:

• Up to 1000 feet (300 meters) above sea level, the pump should be no more than 25 feet (7.5 meters) above the water source. 
• At 5000 feet (1500 meters) above sea level, this distance is reduced to 22 feet (6.5 meters). 
• At 10,000 feet (3000 meters) above sea level, this distance is reduced to 18 feet (5.5 meters).

The pump efficiency is affected by many factors, including how far it has to draw (lift) the water and how high it must pump it.  If the pump is lifting water the maxiumum recommended 25 feet (7.5 m) and pumping it to maximum recommended 175 feet (52 m), more energy is required than other, less demanding situations.  The consequence is that the volume will be reduced.

Regarding the wind, there are some general considerations:

• The wind pump should be placed clear of any wires or branches that might cause entanglement.
• Place it away from trees and buildings at the same height of the rotor.  These can disturb the wind flow and reduce the wind pump's efficiency.
• If possible, position the rotor above the treetops and buildings.
• The windward side of mountains and hills is good.  Avoid the leeward side.
• Near the shore of a large body of water, where it can take advantage of diurnal wind patterns.