How 'plug-and-play' technology is making it easier for owners and renters to replace their lighting
- SkyPlug technology allows for plug-and-play installation of lighting, ceiling fans, and SKYX smart devices
- Built-in installation solutions enable dated lights to be swapped out quickly by plugging in new lighting trends
These Parkmont pendant lights by LumLight, shown here with matte black hardware and glass shades, are one of many fixtures offered with built-in SkyPlug installation technology.
Design pros know that changing the lighting in your apartment or townhouse can dramatically update the space. But replacing hardwired pendants, chandeliers, and sconces generally calls for hiring an electrician, so owners often balk at the extra cost, waiting until a renovation to swap them out. Renters, too, may decide to live with lackluster lighting rather than shell out bucks for an electrician, assuming they even have their landlord's permission.
That was then. This is now: A recent innovation in lighting technology makes it possible for anyone—even non-DIY types—to swap out dated fixtures without the hassle and expense.
Imagine having a special outlet in the ceiling or on the wall that allows you to attach a cordless fixture with the click of a button—no hardwiring required.
"Our breakthrough SkyPlug technology is a major advancement in the lighting industry," says Patty Barron, chief operating officer of SKYX Platforms, whose mission is to make every environment safer, more cost-effective, and efficient. It also aims for its "plug-and-play" product to be the new standard in electrical safety and smart functionality adopted by builders, architects, and homeowners alike. Indeed, the company is working with New York City developers to implement this amenity into new luxury construction condos and market-rate rental buildings. (Psst: It's also being implemented in hotels and commercial spaces.)
"For owner-operators and project managers, the technology represents major cost savings due to reduced maintenance costs and the ease of fixture replacement and smart upgrades," says Leigha Lugo, director of sales and marketing for SKYX Platforms.
Read on for how to adopt this game-changing tech in your own home—or what to look for if you are shopping for a new place to buy or rent.
How it works
SkyPlug Technology consists of two devices: the SkyOutlet receptacle (termed by the National Electric Code as a "weight-supporting ceiling receptacle") and a universal SkyPlug, which can be integrated into any light fixture, ceiling fan, or electrical device.
The low-profile round SkyOutlet wires into an existing junction box in the ceiling or a wall to support load-bearing fixtures. According to Lugo, this job is easy enough for DIYers to do by watching the helpful how-to tutorial, "but we want everyone to feel safe," so you may want to hire an electrician for the initial outlet installation, especially if you are adding multiple outlets throughout your residence.
After that initial one-time installation, the SkyOutlet functions like a regular wall outlet in creating "plug-and-play" installation for all future replacements and updates.
"The SkyPlug technology allows users to easily attach fixtures to their ceilings and walls and swap them out whenever they need (while power is still live, no need to turn off the circuit breaker), reducing the risk of electrocution," Barron said, adding that it takes mere minutes to complete the job.
What's more: Think about how convenient it would be to unplug your fixtures—especially those with glass shades—to clean them or to quickly remove your ceiling fan to repaint a room—then plug them back in.
Pricing is about $20 for a single SkyOutlet, with discounts for multiples—$60 for a four-pack, $110 for an eight-pack, and $280 for a 24-pack.
What lights can be used
SkyPlug technology is designed to work with any brand of lighting (and ceiling fan).
SKYX Platforms has launched its own brand of lighting called LumLight, comprising plug-and-play products that can be purchased from 1Stoplighting.com, Wayfair, and Home Depot, and anticipates being incorporated into products by partner brands in 2025.
"We believe that high-quality lighting should be within reach for everyone. That’s why we offer premium, beautifully crafted fixtures at competitive prices, ensuring that style and affordability go hand in hand," says Jonathan Globerson, vice president of product development for SKYX Platforms. "Just plug them in and instantly illuminate any space. No complicated wiring, no hassle—just instant beauty and functionality."
Like all lighting, the styles range from traditional to industrial, farmhouse to modern, and fall into four main types of fixtures: pendants, chandeliers, semi-flush mounts, and sconces, including some exterior options.
Upgrading existing fixtures to plug and play
In addition to LumLight's integrated fixtures, you can buy the SkyPlug Lighting Canopy Kit for about $50 to retrofit any standard light so it can plug into the SkyOutlet.
When going this route, you (or a skilled pro) will need to cut, strip, and insert the fixture's non-live wiring into the SkyPlug attachment as directed —or by watching this tutorial. But Lugo points out you can do this prep work on the ground rather than while standing on a ladder, eliminating another safety risk.
If you want a smart option
Going beyond the basic model, SKYX offers a Smart Canopy ($140) that includes advanced functionalities such as voice control via Apple Siri and Amazon Alexa, customized lighting schedules, dimming, and color changing for enhanced ambiance and energy efficiency.
An All-In-One Platform, to be launched in 2025, works as a WiFi extender, smart speaker, intercom system, and emergency smoke and carbon monoxide detector, all while accepting a light fixture into the integrated SkyOutlet in the center. It is "matter-certified" and compatible with Apple Siri, Amazon Alexa, and Google Home.
“Today’s homeowners and renters expect their space to be equipped with smart tech from day one and are willing to pay more for that amenity,” Lugo says.
Ready to upgrade to smart plug-and-play lighting? Visit SKYXplatforms.com for more information about the available products and where to buy them.
