Manual application of lubricant can be effective in some cases, but it can be unreliable. The maintenance schedule of the system may not always coincide with when the system requires additional lubrication. This may result in messy over lubrication and other times of inadequate under lubrication. This is especially true if the location is difficult to access. Using an automatic system provides the advantage of a steady and uniform supply of lubricant. Automatic systems are typically sized with an appropriate volume to not require service for 12+ months.

Automatic systems have changed from basic self-contained electro-chemicalor electro-mechanical systems to more advanced versions featuring multiple outlets, multiple pumps and PLC integration.