> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.oncanary.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Meter automations

> Understand how readings trigger work orders, asset status changes, and email actions.

A meter automation evaluates new readings and runs configured actions when a trigger pattern matches. Use it for condition-based responses such as creating an inspection after a high temperature or changing an asset status after a switch turns off.

## Meter automation model

Each automation contains:

1. One meter
2. Up to 10 trigger clauses evaluated as **OR**
3. A frequency pattern
4. Optional conditions
5. Between 1 and 5 ordered actions
6. An independent cooldown for each action

## Trigger operators

Value comparisons include above, below, equal, and between. Change comparisons include increases by and decreases by. Change comparisons use the single-reading pattern because they compare the new reading with its predecessor.

For value comparisons, choose one reading, X of the last Y readings, or a sustained duration. Use repeated-reading patterns to reduce response to isolated spikes.

## Actions

An automation can:

* Create a work order
* Change an asset's status
* Send an email notification

A created work order can use a work-order template, assignments, and planned parts when the related modules and records are available.

## Cooldowns

Cooldowns apply per action. A matching reading can run one action while another remains inside its cooldown. The default cooldown is five minutes, and the configured value can extend up to seven days.

## Compare maintenance plans

Meter automations respond to readings. Maintenance plans generate work from fixed calendar dates and recurrence rules. Choose the source that reflects the maintenance requirement.

## Related pages

* [Create an automation](/help/automations/create-automation)
* [Review automation executions](/help/automations/review-executions)
* [Maintenance plans](/help/maintenance-plans/overview)