I purchased a Hampton Bay Carriage House ll 52" flushmount ceiling fan and did not notice the light kit used only 40 watt bulbs. This is way too dim for our room. Can a higher wattage bulb be substituted? If so, which one? It appears that the light kit is constructed so only this type of bulb can be used. Is there a way to use a brighter bulb or do I need to get another light kit?

Read the instructions, look at the lampholder. There should be some information telling you the maximum wattage you can use. If you can't increase the wattage sometimes you can use a cfl to get more light. If these ideas don't work, buy a different light kit.

If you're not using a remote or dimmer, try using CFL bulbs.