I think from what you posted it is possible for you to learn how a pool runs and how to maintain it, but you are going to have to do a lot of reading and searching on the internet. Since you have no clue as to what your equipment is, it's going to be a long process. if you had someone come out and show you and explain it all to you, it would be a much easier learning curve, and if some of the equipment is indeed not working properly I am not sure you have a lot of time to learn.

As others have said, the type of pool you have doesn't really matter, the basics and the equipment are the same. Maybe you could try searching for an independant pool serviceman, you don't necessarily need a pool store. I know in my area there are lots of people who have their pool opened and closed by independant service companies.

If any of your neighbors have pools, who services theirs?

And as an aside, I would contact Viking and tell them about the installer they recommended.

That's the way I would go about it, anyway.

Good luck