> ## 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.

# Preventive maintenance

> Schedule routine work so it happens on time without anyone having to remember it.

Preventive maintenance (PM) is the routine work that keeps equipment from failing: lubrication, filter changes, inspections, calibration, servicing. In Opmaint, PM is set up once and then creates work orders on schedule.

## Two ways to schedule PM

> **Time based**
>
> Run the job every day, week, month or year. Good for inspections, cleaning and statutory checks.

> **Usage based**
>
> Run the job when a meter crosses a value, such as every 500 running hours or every 10,000 km. See [Meters](/meters).

## Setting up a PM

For each routine job, decide:

* **Which asset** it is for
* **How often** it runs
* **Who** does it, a person or a team
* **Which checklist** the technician should follow

Then create a work order with those details and turn on **Repeat Work Order**. Step-by-step: [Recurring and upcoming work orders](/recurring-work-orders).

Each asset's **PM Schedule** tab shows the preventive maintenance scheduled for it. See [Assets](/assets).

## Getting started with PM

Do not try to schedule everything on day one. Start with your most critical assets, the ones that stop production or operations when they fail, and the checks you are legally required to do. Add more once the team is comfortable.

## Related

> **[Checklists](/checklists)**

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


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