Abstract: Electrochemical ionization apparatus, system and method for purifying water by the generation of metallic ions, such as copper and silver, which apparatus comprises an ion-generation chamber apparatus composed of an insulating tubular housing, and outer and inner spaced apart, concentric tubular electrodes disposed within the housing and composed of a conductive metallic material, such as copper or a copper alloy, an insulating and interlocking block to insulate and space apart the first and second electrodes and to interlock the electrodes into position, and threaded connectors extending from the outside of the housing through the housing wall, the outer electrode, the block and the inner electrode, and a pair of electrical connectors on the outside of the housing for connection of the housing to a power supply and control source.