Systems and methods are described that combine capacitive deionization (CDI) and electro-deionization (EDI) mechanisms for deionizing aqueous or non-aqueous solutions. The inventive systems and methods modify certain known coatings or films by perforating the films with pin holes and using spacers that separate the coatings from the electrodes. Benefits derived from these improvements include: (a) maintaining a high level of purification; (b) increasing by as much as 25% the rate of expulsion of ions during regeneration; (c) increasing by as much as 50% the rate of electrical discharge of the cell; (d) decreasing the regeneration time (producing as much as 33% more purified water per unit of time); (e) reducing by as much as 25% the power required; and (f) improving the recovery of the system to as much as 85%.