Keith,
The basic answer is "yes" you probably can add SWM to your KVH dish (although you will be limited to Standard Definition reception rather than High Definition). The conversion will require the purchase of a SWM8 box. You can google "how to add SWM to my KVH xxx dish". You need to insert the exact model of your KVH dish in that query.
As far as not working back home, your Genie should find your home SWM dish on reboot (pressing the red button next to the access card). Be sure that your Power Inserter is plugged in.
Bob