I got a turbo trainer (elite), sweat mat and riser (Cycleops) a few months back, and once in the new place in a few weeks plan on using it regularly with some real rides once or twice a month.  Sadly time doesn't always permit as long a ride as I'd like which is why I got the trainer.

 

Are there any tips to getting the most from a turbo trainer once I get into using it?

Trainers are ok for keeping the miles in your legs and a bit of resistance training but you need a structure in my opinion. Have a look at a heart rate monitor and some hr training examples on google, these add much more structure and make it worth while come when you start out on the roads again.

I would say limit your time on the trainer to combat boredom. During the winter I would use it anything up to 4 times a week for not more than 35 mins each session. I did not have any structure as such it was more to help my fitness than anything else. It does help to have a session playing on an tablet/ laptop from YouTube which helps the boredom and keeps it interesting.