What is the maximum wattage allowed for the lights in a Hampton Bay ceiling fan model AC 527 NN? The current candelabra bulbs are 40 watt. I would like to use 60 watt bulbs but don't want to start a fire! Can I?

How much amperage is required for the fan?

To find the Wattage being used by your fan, multiply the Voltage, 120, by the Amperage, I. That will give you watts.

You might also be able to look in the specifications of your fan.

Duke,

Every fan I have ever seen, has a spec sheet with it. Also there is usually a lable either in the light asm. Or on the fixture itself.

Enclosed lights within a globe usually have a maximum, but if these are upright or non-enclosed lights, 60 W should be OK.

How many bulbs are we talking about?

Do you know the model NAME of the fan?

Most lights will have the wattage rating posted inside the fixture, as well as in the instructions.

The average watts a ceiling fan carries is specific to the fan...
But what you asked is a different issue... the lamp holders on fixtures are rated with a maximum wattage lamp that can be installed. Either there is a label on each lampholder or this is specified in the installation instructions...
Guessing can be a bad idea.

There is no "average". Smaller fans use less electricity as does lower speeds. The lighting issue has nothing to do with the fan wattage. The lamp wattage is limited due to a fire hazard from the lamp heat. The light fixture will tell you max wattage. However, using CFL's allow you to use a higher Lumen lamp without a wattage concern.