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

# Meter alerts

> Decide what happens automatically when a reading goes out of range.

Every meter can have a normal range. When a reading falls outside it, Opmaint can act on its own instead of waiting for someone to notice.

## Set up an alert

**1. Open the meter**

Create a new meter from **Meters** > **+ Create New**, or edit an existing one. See [Meters](/meters).

**2. Set the normal range**

Enter the **Minimum Value** and **Maximum Value**.

**3. Choose the out-of-range action**

Under **Out of Range Action**, pick one:

| Action | What happens |
| - | - |
| **Auto-Create Request** | A request is raised for maintenance to review |
| **Auto-Create Work Order** | A work order is created straight away |
| **Invalid Input** | The reading is treated as invalid, useful for catching typing mistakes |

**4. Save**

Click **Create**, or save your changes.

## Which action to choose

* **Auto-Create Work Order** when an out-of-range reading always needs action, such as a cold room above its temperature limit.
* **Auto-Create Request** when someone should look first and decide.
* **Invalid Input** when an out-of-range number almost certainly means a wrong entry, such as running hours going backwards.

## Setting good limits

* **Start from the manufacturer's range** for the equipment.
* **Leave a margin.** A limit just before the danger point gives your team time to respond.
* **Avoid noisy alerts.** If a limit is crossed every day and nobody acts, the limit is wrong.

## Alerts and sensors

Out-of-range actions work on any reading, whether a technician enters it or a [connected sensor](/sensors) sends it. With sensors, problems are caught as they happen instead of at the next manual round. See also [Asset monitoring](/asset-monitoring).

## Related

> **[Meters](/meters)**

> **[Automations](/automations)**


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