I go to task manager lite before I put mine in rest mode to make sure all apps are off. I downloaded the free version of Juice Defender but might get the Ultimate version. I just got my Epic this Wednesday-yay UPS-so I'm keeping an eye on my battery.
I ordered mine thru Sprint, it shipped with Froyo. I do have to shut off apps via tml. I do love this phone, it is definitely a mini computer, and the camera is excellent. I've done photography for 40+ years, the images are excellent.
So evidently I need to bring up the option screen for each app to exit the app. I'm still learning this phone.