Muscat – Nameer, an Omani student startup, has created a smart water heater and cooler insulated against electric shocks.

Manal al Naabi, Khalid al Shaqsi, Qusai al Ma’awali, Anas al Naabi, Dania Kfayat, Safaa al Saidia, Al Yaqeen al Saeedia, Muhammad al Mahrouqi and Abdullah al Shiyadi – students of University of Technology and Applied Sciences Sohar – came up with the idea of the smart device as they were concerned about electrocution accidents related to water heaters and coolers.

Team member Shaqsi informed that the water heater is cylindrical with maximum water heating temperature of 65°C in winter, while in the summer, it functions like a cooler regulating temperature to a minimum of 23°C.

He explained that the device includes a feature that prevents electrocution by way of programmed sensors included in the circuit that cut off the power supply when hot water is used.

“We faced a funding challenge, besides difficulties in sourcing parts. Also, there are no specialised workshops for this kind of work,” Shaqsi said.

Nameer’s plans for the future include developing the device further to operate on solar energy. The company is currently working on marketing the device and participating in scientific and technological competitions.

“The company is now seeking a patent from the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion,” Shaqsi said.